This paper describes the results of an investigation of thermal energy storage in phase change materials (PCMs) for water heating and space heating applications. Several PCMs were selected from the literature that have transition temperatures in the range of 60 to 100°C. These PCMs included salt hydrates, organic materials, and eutectics. Based on the information on energy density, toxicity and cost, the list of PCMs was narrowed down to three for experimental investigation. These PCMs were trisodium phosphate dodecahydrate, ammonium alum, and eutectic of ammonium alum and ammonium nitrate. Supercooling of PCMs was prevented by using nucleating agents and phase segregation was prevented by using extra water and thickening agents. Enthalpy was measured in a drop calorimeter over a large number of heating and cooling cycles . Encapsulation of PCMs in laminated aluminum foil pouches and in hollow high density polyethylene (HDPE) balls was investigated. Different types of laminated aluminum foils were tested, with varying degree of success. A scale model of storage unit was tested for space heating using eutectic of ammonium alum and ammonium nitrate encapsulated in hollow HDPE balls.
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