Latent heat storage
Energy stored in a phase-change is called 'latent energy'.
Thermal storage using latent heat has been recognised early (1940) as an attractive alternative to sensible heat storage in the building construction.
Early efforts in the development of latent heat storage used inorganic phase change materials (PCMs), especially salthydrates. However, to avoid some of the problems inherent in these materials, an interest was developed in the use of organic PCMs (paraffins) for this purpose.
Recent research has looked at the incorporation of organic PCMs into porous building materials, creating functional and effective building elements which can effect significant energy savings.
technology | latent heat storage |
typical volume | n/a |
typical heat density | n/a |
temperature range | 20-40°C (paraffins) 30-80°C (salt hydrates) |
storage timescale | days-months |
development status | pilot projects |
advantages | high storage density small volumes needed |
disadvantages | low heat conductivity corrosivity |