Dynamic PCM for high-performance latent thermal energy storage: A numerical and parametric study

This work presents a theoretical study on dynamic PCM (dynPCM) systems for latent thermal energy storage and high-flux thermal management. First, a 2D numerical model based on the enthalpy-porosity method is validated against established experimental data, accurately predicting the transient melt layer thickness, surface temperature of the heating plate, and melting speed. Results show that dynPCM shortens the charging and discharging times by up to 55% and 30.8%, respectively, compared to classical constrained melting (also termed conventional PCM). Moreover, dynPCM can store up to 35%-37% more energy in latent form under the same heat supply conditions. Building on this validated model, a parametric analysis is conducted using dimensionless groups (Stefan, Peclet, and Reynolds numbers) to examine the effects of thermophysical properties and external operating conditions on system performance at steady state. The study elucidates how latent heat, thermal conductivity, viscosity, and operating pressure collectively govern melt layer thickness, thermal resistance, and pumping power. Finally, an analytical correlation for predicting the heating plate surface temperature is proposed, significantly reducing the need for computationally expensive simulations.