The Journal of Science and Engineering Applications (JSEA)

Abstract

Due to its economic appeal and technological feasibility, solar water heating is the most popular application of solar energy. However, the utilization of solar water heaters (SWHs) is limited by the sporadic nature of solar energy and the absence of energy storage. Phase change materials (PCMs) efficiently use the thermal energy from the sun. By integrating PCMs with SWHs, the restriction of restricted usage during the day is removed, and the system becomes more effective and user-friendly. The working fluid's thermal conductivity must be raised in order to enhance its heat extraction properties. One of the main materials with greater thermal conductivity is nanoparticles. Thus, the total thermal conductivity of the working fluid is increased when the nanoparticles are added to the base fluid. An overview of the main technics and enhancement methods of utilization of solar water heaters are presented in this work. This study is generally divided onto three main sections. First, an outline of the types of solar water heaters and the mechanical method to improve the performance. Second section focused on the use of phase change materials to enhance the solar water heater performance. Finally, the third section introduces the use of Nano-Fluids in solar water heater.