ABSTRACT
The energy storage application plays a vital role in the utilization of the solar energy technologies. There are various types of the energy storage applications are available in the todays world. Phase change materials (PCMs) are suitable for various solar energy systems for prolonged heat energy retaining, as solar radiation is sporadic. This literature review presents the application of the PCM in solar thermal power plants, solar desalination, solar cooker, solar air heater, and solar water heater. Even though the availability and cost of PCMs are complex and high, the PCMs are used in most solar energy methods due to their significant technical parameters improvisation. This review's detailed findings paved the way for future recommendations and methods for the investigators to carry work for further system developments.
Subject(s)
Solar Energy , Hot Temperature , Sunlight , WaterABSTRACT
Among the different kinds of renewable energy sources, solar energy plays a major role because it is safe and inexpensive at all times. Several techniques are developed for steam and electricity generation by solar energy, in which the parabolic trough collector is an advantageous method for generating steam and electricity. Different types of collectors for various temperatures, in which PTCs are used to produce medium temperature ranges using the readily available solar energy, were developed, produced, and tests. Many theoretical and experimental studies have been carried out to improvise parabolic trough collectors' optical and thermal characteristics. The modifications are reviewed in this paper to enhance the design modification, optical and thermal properties utilized in the collector. This analysis paper also elucidates the use of PTC desalination, various integrated parabolic trough collector methods for power generation, and the economic aspects of parabolic trough collector.
