Promising and Potential Applications of Phase Change Materials in the Cold Chain: A Systematic Review

Adhiyaman Ilangovan, Samia Hamdane, Pedro D. Silva (), Pedro D. Gaspar and Luís Pires
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Adhiyaman Ilangovan: Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Samia Hamdane: C-MAST-Center for Mechanical and Aerospace Science and Technologies, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Pedro D. Silva: Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Pedro D. Gaspar: Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Luís Pires: Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal

Energies, 2022, vol. 15, issue 20, 1-15

Abstract: Appropriate measures have been taken to reduce energy requirements for cold chain applications. Thermal energy storage is an accepted method to reduce the need for electrical energy after harvesting fresh horticultural produce. The use of phase change materials (PCM) in postharvest storage, outside of a temperature-controlled environment, extends shelf life and keeps food at the ideal temperature. This review focuses on the various trials using PCM to improve cold chain effectiveness. It also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each type of storage using different PCM, as well as the likely and potentially promising applications of thermal energy storage in the cold chain.

Keywords: cold chain app; thermal energy storage; phase change materials; post-harvest storage (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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