Latent Heat
Latent heat, also known as heat of transformation, is the amount of energy that is absorbed or released by a substance without changing its temperature. This energy change occurs when a substance changes its state of aggregation, such as when it melts from solid to liquid or evaporates from liquid to gas. Latent heat is fundamental to processes in which phase transitions play a role. The energy is stored or released during the phase transition, depending on whether the process is endothermic, i.e. absorbing energy, or exothermic, i.e. releasing energy. The amount of latent heat transferred is determined by the specific heat of fusion or vaporization of the material. It indicates the latent energy in joules per kilogram of the material that is required to complete the phase change without changing the temperature.
Latent heat and phase change materials
Latent heat is central to the functioning of phase change materials (PCMs), which are often used for energy and thermal regulation. PCMs use the property of latent heat to store or release energy during the phase transition, allowing them to maintain a constant temperature. This phase change, often from solid to liquid or vice versa, absorbs or emits heat at a specific temperature determined by the material. The stored energy in the form of latent heat allows PCMs to act as effective heat reservoirs that can absorb temperature peaks and create a uniform thermal environment without external energy input. These properties make PCMs ideal for use in environments that require precise temperature control.
Potential applications of latent heat in industry
Latent heat is used in various technological and natural processes. In air conditioning and refrigeration technology, for example, it is used for efficient temperature control by using phase change materials (PCM) to store heat and release it again when required. This makes it possible to reduce energy consumption and costs. Latent heat is also used in the construction industry to optimize the heating and cooling requirements of buildings. Other applications include food preservation and transportation, where latent heat helps to keep the temperature of critical goods such as medicines stable.