Student Work

High-Energy Passive Solar Systems

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This project explored integrating phase change material (PCM) to increase the energy storage capacity of building materials in Trombe walls, a passive solar system. PCMs absorb and release thermal energy during the changing of phases. For this project, a water-based gel was explored, contained in PVC tubing within a standard modular concrete brick. A brick configuration with an 8.5% increase in heat capacity was found through thermal tests. These results combined with solar modeling to create a thermal simulation yielded a 9.6% increase in useful passive energy release compared to standard Trombe walls, and a cost analysis predicted 22% savings in heating costs. Finally, policy incentives and funding mechanisms were discussed to aid the implementation of PCM-containing passive solar systems.

  • This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.
Creator
Subject
Publisher
Identifier
  • 106146
  • E-project-042723-124044
Keyword
Advisor
Year
  • 2023
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Date created
  • 2023-04-27
Resource type
Major
Source
  • E-project-042723-124044
Rights statement
Last modified
  • 2023-06-14

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