Design of a PCM storage system for a solar absorption chiller based on exergoeconomic analysis and genetic algorithm

In this article, a solar absorption chiller used in MehrAbad region of Tehran, Iran is optimized with exergoeconomic principles and genetic algorithm. After optimizing, a storage system with Phase Change Material technique (PCM) is designed for this optimum configuration for supporting system when sunshine is not received adequately, especially at night. Exergoeconomic analysis is based on finding some ways to improving the performance of a thermal system considering economic constrains. In this study, the exergoeconomic optimization is applied for LiBr–water absorption. The results show that total investment cost of main system, the whole of system except storage system, has increased 2.0568% rather than the base case that system usually operates. With adding storage system to main system in optimum point, pay back period increases from 0.61 years to 1.13 years.

► We design an energy storage system based on PCM technique. ► We modeled and optimized a solar chiller absorption. ► Our solar chiller was supported by an energy storage system. ► Our case study was Tehran. ► Investment cost and exergy loss affect on the optimum point of solar chiller absorption cycle.