Experimental investigation of a thermoelectric refrigeration system employing a phase change material integrated with thermal diode (thermosyphons)

This paper presents results of tests carried out to investigate the potential application of phase change materials (PCMs) integrated with thermosyphons in a thermoelectric refrigeration system. The work involved design, fabrication and test of a 150 W thermoelectric refrigeration system. The system was first fabricated and tested using a conventional heat sink system (bonded fin heat sink system) at the cold heat sink. In order to improve the performance and the storage capability, the system was reconstructed and tested using an encapsulated PCM as a cold sink. Results of tests of the latter system showed an improved performance compared with the former system. However to improve the storage capability, in particular during off-power periods, it was found necessary to integrate the PCM with a thermal diode, which would allow heat flow in one direction only. Results of tests carried out on the new system showed considerable improvement in the storage capability of the thermoelectric refrigeration system compared with the previous ones. Overall the system suits operation with renewable energies, e.g., solar energy.