Periodic Reporting for period 1 - THERMES (A new generation high temperature phase change microemulsion for latent thermal energy storage in dual loop solar field)
Reporting period: 2019-09-17 to 2021-09-16
• What is the problem/issue being addressed?
The issue being addressed in THERMES is to develop a new generation high-temperature phase change microemulsion both as the latent heat storage material and heat transfer fluid for low temperature solar field of a dual-loop solar field system. The high-temperature phase change microemulsion is characterized by high energy density, enhanced heat transfer performance through the addition of nanoparticles, and cost-effectiveness due to the use of commercial grade paraffin as the latent heat storage medium.
• Why is it important for society?
Energy storage is a key component in providing flexibility and supporting renewable energy integration in the energy system to increase Europe's energy security, competitiveness and sustainability. For concentrated solar power, one of key challenges lies in low-cost high-performance thermal energy storage. Latent thermal energy storage holds the key to resolving such a challenge and keeping energy supply over periods of inadequate irradiation. This THERMES develops a new generation high-temperature phase change microemulsion both as the latent heat storage material and heat transfer fluid for low temperature solar field of a dual-loop solar field system. With the acquisition in this project, the thermal energy storage techniques in concentrated solar energy will be advanced, therefore it’s important for society.
• What are the overall objectives?
To help address the highly challenging, multidisciplinary research gap faced by latent thermal energy storage in concentrated solar power, the overall aim of THERMES is to develop the next generation high temperature, low-cost phase change microemulsion with high energy density and enhanced heat transfer performance, and assess its system and economic performance in the proposed dual-loop solar field.
The issue being addressed in THERMES is to develop a new generation high-temperature phase change microemulsion both as the latent heat storage material and heat transfer fluid for low temperature solar field of a dual-loop solar field system. The high-temperature phase change microemulsion is characterized by high energy density, enhanced heat transfer performance through the addition of nanoparticles, and cost-effectiveness due to the use of commercial grade paraffin as the latent heat storage medium.
• Why is it important for society?
Energy storage is a key component in providing flexibility and supporting renewable energy integration in the energy system to increase Europe's energy security, competitiveness and sustainability. For concentrated solar power, one of key challenges lies in low-cost high-performance thermal energy storage. Latent thermal energy storage holds the key to resolving such a challenge and keeping energy supply over periods of inadequate irradiation. This THERMES develops a new generation high-temperature phase change microemulsion both as the latent heat storage material and heat transfer fluid for low temperature solar field of a dual-loop solar field system. With the acquisition in this project, the thermal energy storage techniques in concentrated solar energy will be advanced, therefore it’s important for society.
• What are the overall objectives?
To help address the highly challenging, multidisciplinary research gap faced by latent thermal energy storage in concentrated solar power, the overall aim of THERMES is to develop the next generation high temperature, low-cost phase change microemulsion with high energy density and enhanced heat transfer performance, and assess its system and economic performance in the proposed dual-loop solar field.
All the research work packages have been successfully achieved through the period of THERMES. The researcher studied the balance between the concentration of paraffin particles (heat storage capacity) and stability of microemulsion. In addition, the involvement of nanoparticles for phase change microemulsion is evaluated. Another key problem solved in the project is optimising heat transfer and reducing flow resistance (pump work) for phase change microemulsion as a heat transfer fluid. Furthermore, the effect of integrating high-temperature phase change microemulsion for latent heat storage in solar field is assessed.
The fellow tested preparation method of high temperature phase change emulsions and achieved stably samples. Their thermal energy storage capacity and thermophysical properties are measured. And static and dynamic microstructures of the high temperature phase change emulsions are studied. Furthermore, thermo-hydraulic performances of high temperature phase change emulsions are evaluated and a heat transfer optimization is performed according to field synergy method. Finally, the fellow carried out energy analysis, exergy analysis and economic evaluation for the dual-loop solar field system integrating high-temperature phase change microemulsion as the working medium in low temperature solar field. The results of the project have been presented in several online conferences and workshops and raised concern by the scientific community.
The fellow tested preparation method of high temperature phase change emulsions and achieved stably samples. Their thermal energy storage capacity and thermophysical properties are measured. And static and dynamic microstructures of the high temperature phase change emulsions are studied. Furthermore, thermo-hydraulic performances of high temperature phase change emulsions are evaluated and a heat transfer optimization is performed according to field synergy method. Finally, the fellow carried out energy analysis, exergy analysis and economic evaluation for the dual-loop solar field system integrating high-temperature phase change microemulsion as the working medium in low temperature solar field. The results of the project have been presented in several online conferences and workshops and raised concern by the scientific community.
The project is committed to develop a practicable working fluid for engineering application - including energy storage and heat transfer in the same time, for concentrated solar energy station and dual loop fluid flow and heat transfer cycling system. With the acquisition in this project, the thermal energy storage techniques in concentrated solar energy will be advanced.