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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article

Recent Advances in Polymer-Based Thermal Management Technologies for Hybrid PV/T Solar Desalination Systems: A Critical Review

  1. Elavarasan P. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research – BIHER, Selaiyur, Chennai
  2. D. Ravi Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bharath Institute of Science and Technology – BIHER, Selaiyur, Chennai

Abstract

Hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) desalination systems are being developed as a new approach that not only generates clean water but also harnesses solar energy. While tremendous progress has been made in terms of design, the thermal management of PV/T desalination systems still poses several problems, such as heat generation, temperature non-uniformity, and inadequate thermal energy storage, all of which adversely affect the efficiency of electricity generation and clean water production. In the past few years, polymers have received increased attention in the thermal management of PV/T systems owing to their low weight, resistance to corrosion, easy processing, and tunability of thermal properties. In this review, recent advances in polymer-based thermal management technologies used in hybrid PV/T solar desalination systems are discussed critically. The review discusses the use of polymers for the encapsulation of PCMs, polymer-based composite heat exchangers, thermally conductive polymer nanocomposites, thermal interface materials (TIMs) based on polymers, membrane-based thermal management approaches, and polymer coating technology for enhanced heat transfer and system performance. The effect of these materials on thermal management, energy storage, heat dissipation, system stability, and overall performance is thoroughly analyzed. Recent advances in computational modeling, thermal optimization using artificial intelligence, and sustainable polymer material design are also highlighted. Moreover, the review highlights some of the present-day limitations concerning thermal conductivity improvement, environmental sustainability, material compatibility, recycling, mass production, and techno-economical viability. Future avenues of research are suggested, such as multifunctional polymer nanocomposites, bio-based and recyclable polymers, smart materials responding to thermal changes, and digital optimization methods for novel generation PV/T solar desalination systems. Summarizing the recent achievements in the field of thermal management based on polymer materials, the review offers an extensive overview of information that can be valuable for scientists and engineers who seek to create efficient and sustainable solar desalination systems.

Keywords

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