Recent research developments in polymer heat exchangers – A review. (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chen, Xiangjie; Su, Yuehong; Reay, David; Riffat, Saffa
• Is Part Of: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews. Volume 60(2016:Jul.)
• Page Start: 1367
• Page End: 1386
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: Polymer heat exchanger -- Review -- Application -- Heat transfer; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2016.03.024
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-0321

Abstract

Abstract: Due to their low cost, light weight and corrosive resistant features, polymer heat exchangers have been intensively studied by researchers with the aim to replace metallic heat exchangers in a wide range of applications. This paper reviews the development of polymer heat exchangers in the last decade, including cutting edge materials characteristics, heat transfer enhancement methods of polymer materials and a wide range of polymer heat exchanger applications. Theoretical modelling and experimental testing results have been reviewed and compared with literature. A recent development, the polymer micro-hollow fibre heat exchanger, is introduced and described. It is shown that polymer materials do hold promise for use in the construction of heat exchangers in many applications, but that a considerable amount of research is still required into material properties, thermal performance and life-time behaviour.