Thermal phase change energy storage

Are phase change materials suitable for thermal energy storage?

Phase change materials (PCMs) having a large latent heat during solid-liquid phase transition are promising for thermal energy storage applications. However, the relatively low thermal conductivity of the majority of promising PCMs (<10 W/ (m ⋅ K)) limits the power density and overall storage efficiency.

Can spatiotemporal phase change materials be used for solar thermal fuels?

In a recent issue of Angewandte Chemie, Chen et al. proposed a new concept of spatiotemporal phase change materials with high super-cooling to realize long-duration storage and intelligent release of latent heat, inspiring the design of advanced solar thermal fuels.

Are functional phase change materials reversible?

Functional phase change materials (PCMs) capable of reversibly storing and releasing tremendous thermal energy during the isothermal phase change process have recently received tremendous attention in interdisciplinary applications.

What are the design principles for improved thermal storage?

Although device designs are application dependent, general design principles for improved thermal storage do exist. First, the charging or discharging rate for thermal energy storage or release should be maximized to enhance efficiency and avoid superheat.

What is a composite phase change material thermal buffer?

A composite phase change material thermal buffer based on porous metal foam and low-melting-temperature metal alloy. Appl. Phys. Lett. 116, 071901. 46. Weinstein, R.D., Kopec, T.C., Fleischer, A.S., D’Addio, E., and Bessel, C.A. (2008).

How can a PCM store thermal energy efficiently?

By controlling the temperature of phase transition, thermal energy can be stored in or released from the PCM efficiently. Figure 1B is a sche-matic of a PCM storing heat from a heat source and transferring heat to a heat sink.