The technical team has gotten off to a good start this semester. At our first meeting, we discussed potential PCM geometries and configurations, deciding to test variations on two general ideas: an outer lining and shelves. These will be studied both theoretically, through modeling in COMSOL, and experimentally, through our ice-insulation tests. We also touched upon the door placement - be it on the side or on the top of the box. The main debates revolved around efficiency and functionality, but we deferred this decision until it could also be confirmed through COMSOL and practical experimentation.
As an update from our last meeting, we discussed the various proposed experiments to be performed using the ice and styrofoam box assembly. We hope to find results regarding a temperature gradient with respect to depth from a cold source; determine that the PCM loses latent energy prior to the rest of the compartment decreasing in temperature; measure the temperature variation within the compartment if one side is subjected to a cold source; and determine the temperature effect if one face is left open to the ambient environment (i.e., simulating an open door).
We also began to model the geometries in COMSOL and continued research into the heat transfer modeling, specifically regarding phase change processes.
This is the blog of Junior Gemstone Team FRESH, who are optimizing cold box design using PCM for more efficient vaccines transport to developing countries.
For more info on Team Fresh, visit their website
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