Thermal Energy Storage Using Phase Change Materials (PCMs): A Literature Review

Increasing energy consumption in today's world and the resulting major environmental problems have made efforts to develop renewable energy and reduce energy consumption as an effort to improve environmental issues, especially global warming, become a major concern in modern world research. It is predicted that by 2050, energy consumption and environmental damage will increase by 1.8%  annually. In addition, with the sharp increase in cooling and heating needs in various industries, and especially the need for thermal energy around the world, the need for appropriate technology that improves thermal performance in various systems, is very important. The result of these restrictions has been a move towards renewable energy and a reduction in fossil fuel consumption. On the other hand, new technologies such as batteries and drugs are highly dependent on temperature changes. The use of phase change materials (PCMs) to store thermal energy in various industries can solve energy shortage problems. This article provides an overview of energy management practices using PCMs. The background of PCMs in different industries was also examined. The application of PCMs in construction, batteries, home water heating systems and other applications was investigated. A summary of the PCMs used is also provided.