Thermal performance analysis of a packed bed cold storage unit using composite PCM capsules for high temperature solar cooling application

• Packed bed cold storage for high temperature solar cooling application is developed.
• Enthalpy–temperature relationship of PCM is used in mathematical model.
• Energy and exergy analysis under constant and dynamic conditions is investigated.
• Results show feasibility of the storage for solar cooling application.

A packed bed cold storage unit is designed for high temperature solar cooling application. Within the unit, the C-L/O composite PCM is selected as a suitable material for storing solar generated cold. An experimental setup and a corresponding mathematical model are established for investigating the thermal performance of the unit. The enthalpy–temperature relationship of the composite C-L/O PCM is introduced in the model for precise modeling of the heat transfer process in composite PCM. The developed mathematical model is validated by comparing the numerical results with the experimental data. Based on the model, effects of inlet heat transfer fluid temperature and flow rate on thermal performance of the unit are discussed in the cold charge process. Simulation results show that the unit is feasible in practical high temperature solar cooling application.