Stefan-Type Problem with Void Formation and Its Explicit Solution

摘要

The density of most materials changes under melting and freezing. For certain materials being considered as potential latent heat storage materials for use in a space station, this density change may be large. A density change induces a change of volume of the material occupying a given container and this creates vapor ''bubbles'' or ''voids.'' We have formulated a problem that models a phase change process with such a void and that has an explicit solution. We examine the solution to gain a further understanding of the thermal and phase change performance of a material in which such voids form. We also look at the related problem of melting a material in which a void is initially present. Examples are given of the performance of a lithium fluoride phase change material subject to melting and freezing. 3 refs., 5 figs. (ERA citation 11:004987)