High-Energy Passive Solar Systems
Public DepositedDownloadable Content
open in viewerThis 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
Relations
- In Collection:
Items
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Thumbnail | Title | Visibility | Embargo Release Date | Actions |
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Final_Report_Submission.pdf | Public | Download |
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