• 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.
