Performance analysis of a dual-stack Air-PCM heat exchanger with novel air flow configuration for cooling applications in buildings

The use of phase change materials for buildings cooling is among the most investigated techniques to improve their energy efficiency. This paper presents experimental investigations a dual-stack latent thermal storage system applications in buildings. consists two PCM stacks placed parallel. Two main design configurations are based on flow straightening components installed before stacks. overall pressure loss through system, distribution and after stacks, performance during charging discharging cycles reported. results show that relatively uniform within inlet outlet chambers. below constraint 180 Pa both successful integration with commercial ventilation systems. fraction air going into 1 ∼55% stack ∼45% 2 cycles. For (both sub-designs), ∼65% using achieved high heat effectiveness (0.89 1, while it 0.86 0.90 sub-designs 2).