Research Projects

Proposed work investigates the compatible integration of nanocomposite phase change material (PCM) in ETC based water heater. Idea is to significantly prolong the hot water supply even if solar radiation is not available. System level amendments are also done to enhance the performance by placing thermal conductivity enhancer inside U-tube ETC. Complete melting/solidification of the PCM would be ensured so that maximum solar energy could be stored and released. Objective of the proposed research: The main aim of this study is to develop and investigate the practicability of a nanocomposite PCM filled evacuated glass tube water heater of approximate capacity of 1000 litre per day to facilitate the continuous hot water supply. Efforts will be made to enhance its performance by placing thermal conductivity enhancer inside U-tube ETC. Besides, it will also reduce the fluctuations in outlet water temperature and heat loss. To accomplish this goal, following steps need to be taken. (1) Design and fabrication of the Copper U-tube ETC solar water heating system assisted with suitable nanocomposite PCM. (2) To examine the potential and feasibility of the different compositions of nanocomposite PCM for the solar energy storage system. (3) Development of complete experimental setup by taking 10-20 (ETCs) equipped with copper pipe and filled with nanocomposite PCM. (4) Incorporation of thermal conductivity enhancer inside ETCs to improve the performance of the heater. (5) To check the feasibility and performance of the developed solar water heating system in different climatic conditions such as, winter, rainy and summer seasons. Besides, performance will also be evaluated for varying time period such as early morning, day time, evening, and late night. (6) Numerical study of the proposed solar water heater for optimization of the design and its performance.