Investigating the Effectiveness of Nano Particles-Enhanced Phase Change Materials for Space Applications

Abstract

Phase change materials (PCMs) are materials that capture and release heat in the form thermal energy during state transitions. This includes changing from solids to liquids or other way round. By incorporating PCMs into spacecraft design, engineers can manage thermal loads by storing excess heat when temperatures rise and releasing it when temperatures fall. This helps to maintain stable temperatures for sensitive instruments and habitats. However, PCMs often have low thermal conductivity. To overcome this problem, nanoparticles are often mixed with PCM for terrestrial applications. We propose the same idea for space systems. As far as we are aware, detailed numerical modelling of nano-PCMs for space applications is missing. This study aims to understand how phase changes occur during extreme weather conditions. We will use the Volume of Fluid (VoF) phenomena to model this transition, while the effects of radiation and conduction will be included through the boundary conditions. This study will shed light on the optimal amount of PCM that can be used for effective thermal management in space systems. We also plan to extend this analysis further for space habitats by including the effects of natural convection inside the habitat.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Immanuvel Paul (Supervisor)