In an innovative leap towards sustainability, researchers have transformed discarded Tetra Pak waste into a powerful tool for enhancing solar water heating systems. A groundbreaking study, led by Safna Nishad at the Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, has developed phase change material (PCM) composites using recycled Tetra Pak waste and paraffin waxes. These composites significantly boost the efficiency of solar water heaters, extending their functionality even after sunset.
The research, published in ‘Energy and Built Environment’ (which translates to ‘Energy and the Built Environment’), focuses on integrating these PCM composites into solar water heaters. By combining recycled Tetra Pak waste with paraffin waxes and expanded graphite, the team created a form-stable PCM composite that not only enhances thermal conductivity and heat storage capacity but also improves photothermal conversion efficiency. “The composites exhibited thermal conductivity values of 1.1–1.15 W/m °C and heat storage capacities ranging from 98.5–105.6 J/g,” Nishad explains. “Moreover, the photothermal conversion efficiencies were impressive, reaching 85% and 55% for composites with melting points of 44°C and 64°C, respectively.”
The implications of this research are vast, particularly for the energy sector. As the world moves towards renewable energy sources, the ability to store and efficiently use solar energy is crucial. Solar water heaters equipped with these advanced PCM composites can maintain higher water temperatures at night, ensuring a steady supply of hot water even when solar radiation is minimal. This not only conserves energy but also reduces reliance on conventional heating methods, contributing to a more sustainable future.
The study also highlights the economic and environmental benefits of repurposing Tetra Pak waste. By incorporating recycled materials into high-performance energy storage solutions, the research promotes a circular economy, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. “This approach not only addresses waste management challenges but also creates valuable products that can be integrated into existing infrastructure,” Nishad adds.
The numerical analysis conducted by the research team further validated the effectiveness of these composites. By estimating the optimum composite thickness for specific solar exposure times, the study provides practical insights for commercial applications. This could pave the way for widespread adoption of these composites in residential and industrial solar water heating systems, driving down costs and enhancing performance.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like these are essential for meeting the growing demand for sustainable solutions. The research by Safna Nishad and her team at Qatar University represents a significant step forward in harnessing the full potential of solar energy, offering a blueprint for future developments in thermal energy storage and renewable resource utilization.
