Thermal performance analysis of PCM in refrigerated container envelopes in the Italian context - Numerical modeling and validation

Due to external climatic conditions, radiation and temperature, refrigerated containers are subjected to high thermal stresses during storage in yards, warehouses, ships or during transport by rail or road. Moreover the consequent high thermal load has a great influence on both the electric and fuel energy consumption and on combined greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. The aim of this research is the theoretical evaluation, using a previously validated Finite Element Method (FEM), of the related energy benefits deriving from the application of PCMs (Phase Change Materials) to a traditional refrigerated container envelope. Specifically the numerical analysis was performed for several kinds of PCMs, climatic conditions and exposures. The study also provides a numerical tool to be used in the prediction of the thermal performance of refrigerated container envelopes with PCM in the Italian context. An experimental analysis was carried out in order to test the accuracy of the numerical model and to validate it. Results show that PCM application to a 20' ISO container envelope can reduce and shift the daily heat load phases with respect to a traditional envelope fitted only with insulating materials