Optimum harnessing of solar energy with proper selection of phase changing material using integrated fuzzy-COPRAS Model

ABSTRACT

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) devices can assist in storing the energy during the sunlight hours which can be used later on non-availability of solar power. Implementation of Phase Changing Material (PCM) can enhance efficiency of TES devices. Selection of resourceful and efficient PCM plays an essential role such that it can be successfully implanted nearly with all solar thermal devices. Assortment of the material involves selection of certain characteristics and properties associated with the performance of material as well as their physical, mechanical, economic and environmental properties. This study deals with a methodological analysis by integrating techniques for finding optimum PCM among various selected materials. Hybridization involves integrating Triangular Fuzzy Number (TFN) with Complex Proportional Assessment (COPRAS) method. In general, Fuzzy set comprises of three or more numbers, denoting it as TFN, Gaussian Fuzzy numbers, Trapezoidal Fuzzy Numbers, and so on. Although alternatives are many to design a fuzzy set depending on elements count, the TFNs are the ones considered as actual representations of a Fuzzy number. COPRAS is a well-known robust MCDM technique chosen to carry out the work of selection. Eight PCM have been compared on the parameters like Latent Heat, Cost, Melting points and others. Calcium Chloride Hexahydrate is the optimum material found as PCM. The result of this study would help planners and designers for an optimum selection of PCM in efficient harnessing of solar energy.

Highlights

• Selection of PCM.

• Integrated Fuzzy-COPRAS method for analysis and selection.

KEYWORDS:

• Thermal Energy Storage (TES)
• phase change material (PCM)
• triangular fuzzy numbers (TFN)
• complex proportional assessment (COPRAS)
• multi criteria decision making (MCDM)

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful for resources provided by Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, and for the authorities of the various data sources from which the data for the study have been taken. They also thank the team of experts who had been immensely helpful and cooperative through the course of this work.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).