Numerical Simulation of a Nano-PCM Integrated PV/T Collector for Enhanced Thermal Regulation and Uniform Heat Distribution

Thermal regulation of photovoltaic (PV) systems is critical for maintaining electrical efficiency and extending component lifespan. This study presents a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) collector incorporating nano-enhanced phase change material (nano-PCM) for simultaneous cooling and thermal energy storage. Copper tubes filled with paraffin doped with ۳ wt.% zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) nanoparticles were vertically embedded beneath the PV panel in a novel energy storage configuration to enhance heat dissipation, improve thermal uniformity, and optimize latent heat storage within the collector structure. Transient numerical simulations were conducted using ANSYS Fluent to analyze both charging and discharging phases of the thermal storage system. During the charging process, the nano-PCM absorbed excess solar heat, effectively stabilizing the thermal field and maintaining tube temperatures approximately within the range of ۲۹۰–۲۹۳ K, while limiting the peak collector temperature to ۳۷۲–۳۸۹ K and preventing localized thermal hotspots. In the discharging phase, the controlled release of stored latent heat sustained tube temperatures between ۳۱۰–۳۲۵ K, maintained the central collector surface temperature at ۳۴۰–۳۴۵ K, and kept the PV panel temperature within ۳۰۰–۳۰۴ K, thereby ensuring stable operational thermal conditions. The proposed system introduces a modified and innovative configuration of thermal energy storage integration, enabling improved heat management, enhanced energy recovery, and prolonged system stability. The results indicate that the simultaneous implementation of nano-PCM–based storage and optimized PV/T structural arrangement provides an effective strategy for balancing heat absorption, storage, and controlled heat release. This integrated thermal management approach is particularly suitable for solar drying applications, where a continuous and stable thermal energy supply is essential for maintaining product quality and process efficiency.

کلیدواژه ها:

Charging and discharging ، Photovoltaic panel ، Thermal energy storage material ، Nano-PCM ، Dynamic heat transfer analysis