Review of Selected Heat Transfer Topics for Solar Thermal Energy Utilization and Storage

This review article, developed by the K6 Committee—Heat Transfer in Energy Systems, a part of the Heat Transfer Division (HTD) of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), summarizes advancements in heat transfer technologies for solar thermal energy utilization and storage, focusing on concentrated solar power (CSP), solar-driven cooling, sensible and latent thermal energy storage (TES), and novel heat exchanger designs. Key topics include heat transfer enhancement strategies such as additive manufacturing, phase change materials (PCMs), and triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures for improving efficiency. The advances in solar-driven cooling and multigeneration systems are analyzed, emphasizing thermodynamic optimization through exergy and entropy generation minimization. Additionally, the study examines emerging methodologies, including constructal theory and second-law analysis, to enhance the performance of solar thermal applications. The article highlights overlaps in TES strategies, heat exchanger innovations, and system optimization approaches, offering a comprehensive perspective on sustainable energy solutions. Future research directions include scaling advanced TES materials, optimizing hybrid cooling technologies, and improving structural integrity in high-temperature heat exchangers.