2D SIMULATION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC THERMAL PANEL MODULE WITH A LAYER OF PHASE CHANGE MATERIAL AND METAL FOAM

An investigation on Photovoltaic thermal (PVT) system with a layer of phase change material (PCM) and metal foam (MF) has been carried out under two configurations over a year. The study aims to assess the influence of a thermal storage layer on electrical and thermal energy production in the PVT panel. Simulations for the year 2022 in Aversa (Italy) considered a panel inclination of 36°, with the heat transfer fluid flowing during daylight hours at temperatures of 20°C and 10°C. Two paraffin types, RT25 and RT21, with melting points of 25°C and 21°C, were selected for operation. The analysis carried out reveals the impact of the thermal storage system with PCM (Phase Change Materials) and metal foam on the photovoltaic thermal panel (PVT). The study was conducted in two dimensions using the Fluent software. The optimal operating temperature of the selected photovoltaic panel was found to be 21°C. The inclusion of a latent heat storage layer, incorporating PCM and metal foam, effectively transferred excess heat to the PCM, accumulating latent heat during melting. This stored heat was subsequently released during the night or when the water inlet temperature control was deactivated. The daily loading and unloading cycle of the storage layer allowed the accumulated heat to be utilized for water heating at specific temperatures, particularly in the initial hours post-sunset. The study concludes by presenting detailed calculations for both electrical and thermal energy produced by the system.