Multiphysics CFD modeling of an optimized double-pass PVT system with phase change materials and wavy fins for enhanced thermal and electrical efficiency

This study investigates an optimized double-pass photovoltaic thermal system incorporating phase change materials and wavy fins (PVT-PCMWF) to enhance thermal and electrical efficiency. Utilizing advanced 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling in COMSOL Multiphysics, we analyze the system's performance against a conventional PVT-PCM configuration. The PVT-PCMWF system exhibits a remarkable average outlet air temperature of 44 degrees C, a 7.75 % increase over the PVT-PCM system's 41 degrees C. This improvement is attributed to enhanced turbulent airflow and superior heat transfer characteristics facilitated by the wavy fins. Notably, the thermal efficiency of the PVT-PCMWF system reaches 18 %, marking a significant advancement of 61.35 % compared to the PVT-PCM's 11.15 %. Furthermore, the electrical efficiency also improves by 2 %, achieving a value of 12.09 %. The PVT-PCMWF configuration demonstrates a daily average heat gain of 229.6 W, a substantial increase of 72 % from the 133.5 W observed in the PVT-PCM system. These enhancements underscore the critical role of design modifications in optimizing energy systems, suggesting that the integration of wavy fins and PCM not only improves thermal management but also contributes to more reliable and sustainable energy utilization. Overall, the findings advocate for the implementation of innovative designs in renewable energy technologies to maximize solar energy efficiency.