Advances in Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Materials-Based Solar Energy Systems

Advanced thermal energy storage is playing an increasingly important role in improving the performance and reliability of solar energy systems. In this context, Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Materials (NEPCMs) have emerged as a promising solution to overcome the limitations of conventional Phase Change Materials (PCMs). While PCMs offer high latent heat storage capacity and near-isothermal operation, their low thermal conductivity restricts charging and discharging rates, limiting their effectiveness in practical solar thermal and energy storage applications. The incorporation of nanoparticles into PCMs, as well as the use of nano-encapsulated PCMs has been shown to enhance thermal conductivity, improve heat transfer efficiency, and increase material stability. However, engineering challenges remain, including nanoparticle dispersion control, material compatibility, long-term performance under cyclic operation, and the coupled heat and mass transfer behavior of NEPCMs under realistic operating conditions.

This Research Topic aims to promote the engineering development, performance evaluation, and system integration of NEPCMs for solar energy and thermal energy storage applications. Key objectives include optimizing nanoparticle selection and incorporation methods, assessing thermophysical and rheological behavior under practical operating conditions, and improving predictive tools for system-level performance analysis. Emphasis is placed on studies that connect material-level enhancements with measurable improvements in energy storage efficiency, heat transfer performance, and operational reliability. The topic also encourages contributions that apply advanced modeling approaches, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to support the design, optimization, and scaling of NEPCM-based energy systems.

This Research Topic focuses on applied research and engineering solutions related to the formulation, characterization, and deployment of NEPCMs in solar and thermal energy storage systems. Submissions should remain within the scope of energy technologies and emphasize performance, scalability, and practical implementation, rather than unrelated nanomaterials or non-energy-oriented PCM studies.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
• Engineering synthesis and functionalization of NEPCMs for enhanced thermal performance;
• Improvement of thermophysical and rheological properties relevant to system operation;
• Dispersion stability and durability of NEPCMs under long-term cyclic loading;
• Experimental and computational analysis of heat and mass transfer in NEPCM-based systems;
• Integration of NEPCMs into solar collectors, PV/T systems, building energy systems, and thermal storage units;
• Application of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced simulations for system design and optimization;
• Case studies demonstrating performance enhancement, energy savings, and operational feasibility.