Phase Change Materials Integrated Into Solar Parabolic Collectors

This article reviews the solar systems incorporating parabolic collectors and phase change materials (PCM). Both experimental and numerical research studies are presented, including the main factors affecting the system’s performance, such as heat transfer fluid and solar radiation. This article aims to explore the importance of such combinations and the contribution of integrating PCM to improve concentrated parabolic solar systems. The most frequently used parabolic collector and storage materials are the parabolic trough and paraffin wax, respectively. The suitable PCM must be characterized by appropriate phase change temperature, good thermal conductivity, and high storage capacity.