Experimental Investigations of the Melting/Solidification of Coconut Oil Using Ultrasound-Based and Image Processing Approaches

Rafał Andrzejczyk (), Radosław Drelich () and Michał Pakuła
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Rafał Andrzejczyk: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology, Institute of Energy, Gdańsk University of Technology, Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
Radosław Drelich: Faculty of Mechatronics, Kazimierz Wielki University, Kopernika 1, 85-074 Bydgoszcz, Poland
Michał Pakuła: Faculty of Mechatronics, Kazimierz Wielki University, Kopernika 1, 85-074 Bydgoszcz, Poland

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 20, 1-22

Abstract: The present study aims to compare the feasibility of using ultrasound techniques and image processing to obtain comprehensive experimental results on the dynamics of solid–liquid fraction changes during the melting and solidification of coconut oil as a phase change material (PCM). The discussion will focus on the advantages and limitations of various ultrasonic techniques and image data analysis for inspecting materials during phase transitions. Ultrasound enables the detection of phase changes in materials by analysing variations in their acoustic properties, such as wave velocity and amplitude, during transitions. This method is not only cost-effective compared to traditional non-destructive techniques, such as X-ray tomography, but also offers the potential for real-time monitoring in thermal energy storage systems. Furthermore, it can provide valuable information about internal mechanical parameters and the material’s structure. A detailed analysis of the melting and solidification dynamics has been conducted, confirming the feasibility of using ultrasound parameters to assess the reconstruction of material structures during phase changes. This study paves the way for more efficient and cost-effective monitoring of phase change materials in various applications.

Keywords: melting; solidification of coconut oil; ultrasonic wave propagation; image processing; temperature; phase change material (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: 2025
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