Sensitivity Analysis of One-Phase and Two-Phase 1D PBTES Models to Thermal Properties Modeling of Copper Slag

Araya, Valentina Constanza Segovia, Vasquez, Ignacio Calderon, Cardemil, Jose Miguel

ISES Solar World Congress 2025 · Fortaleza, Brazil · 2025-11-03
Published by International Solar Energy Society (ISES)

Abstract

This study investigates the sensitivity of copper slag's thermal properties in a packed-bed thermal energy storage (PBTES) system, focusing on two 1-dimensional models: a one-phase and a two-phase model. Thermal conductivity (k) and specific heat capacity (cp) were experimentally measured, with temperature-dependent variations considered. Four cases were analyzed, alternating constant and temperature-dependent properties. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as stored energy, response time, and round-trip efficiency were evaluated. The results show that stored energy is highly sensitive to cp, with a ~12% reduction when using temperature-dependent values. Thermal conductivity had minimal impact. The findings emphasize the importance of accurate cp modeling for reliable PBTES system design, particularly for solar energy applications.

Keywords

Thermophysical Properties Modeling, Packed-bed Thermal Energy Storage, Thermal Energy Storage Simulation.

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