Molecular solar thermal storage system

What is molecular solar thermal energy storage?

Molecular solar thermal energy storage systems (MOST) offer emission-free energy storage where solar power is stored via valence isomerization in molecular photoswitches. These photoswitchable molecules can later release the stored energy as heat on-demand. Such systems are emerging in recent years as a vibr

Can molecular solar energy be stored in strained isomeric structures?

Recent advances in the design of molecular have opened up opportunities for storing solar energy in strained isomeric structures and releasing heat on demand, culminating in molecular solar thermal (MOST) energy storage densities over 0.3 MJ kg−1 and validating the potential for achieving thermal

Can molecular photoswitches be used in solar thermal energy storage?

The calculated energy densities of the dimer and trimer systems of up to 927 kJ kg −1 (257 Wh kg −1) and measured densities up to 559 kJ kg −1 (155 Wh kg −1) greatly exceed the original targets of 300 kJ kg -1 15 highlighting the potential of applying molecular photoswitches in future solar thermal energy storage technologies.

What are solar thermal batteries based on?

The solar thermal batteries based on MOST compounds will enable a solar-chargeable, off-grid, and long-term energy storage in light-weight organic materials that are easily produced from low-cost feedstocks, complementing the state-of-the-art energy conversion and storage technologies.

Can solar energy be stored based on a reversible chemical reaction?

A device for solar energy storage and release based on a reversible chemical reaction is demonstrated. A highly soluble derivative of a (fulvalene)diruthenium (FvRu 2) system is synthesized, capable of storing solar energy (110 J g −1) in the form of chemical bonds and then releasing it “on demand”, when excited thermally or catalytically.

How will a hybrid solar energy system work?

The molecular system will capture solar energy at room temperature and store it for long periods of time without significant losses. Combined with thermal energy storage, the hybrid system will make efficient and on-demand use of solar energy possible. Two modes of operation will be possible.