Abstract
In this paper, the effect of using PCM in a solar wall is investigated numerically and analytically. For this purpose, a solar wall with a room in both PCM and PCM-free modes is simulated in the solar wall. The effective heat capacity method has been used to simulate the PCM melting process. The effect of using PCM in the solar wall in different heat fluxes, different wall thicknesses, average room temperature, etc. on the number of times of natural air conditioning in the room has been investigated. This analysis is performed as a transition for a full day. For this purpose, a handwritten code with COMSOL software has been used. The results of this study showed that storing solar energy in PCM as latent melting energy can provide 24-h ventilation in the room. This is also possible for small solar fluxes. Also, the use of PCM in the wall can significantly reduce the wall thickness. The results also show that the use of PCM with higher thermal conductivity increases the number of times of air conditioning. The highest number of air conditionings per hour occurred during the peak hours of solar radiation.
✓The influence of using PCM in a solar wall is investigated numerically and analytically.✓A solar wall with a room in both PCM and PCM-free modes is simulated in the solar wall.✓Storing solar energy in PCM as latent melting energy can provide 24-h ventilation in the room.✓The use of PCM in the wall can significantly reduce the wall thickness.✓Use of PCM with higher thermal conductivity increases the number of times of air conditioning.