Abstract
Modern electric grids that use intermittent renewables require energy storage to maintain reliability. Many potential solutions exist, but latent heat thermal energy storage shows particularly high potential for low cost grid scale energy storage. In this paper, we present the design and initial experimental results for a lab-scale prototype of a novel latent heat thermal storage system. This version of our prototype used 50 kg of aluminum-silicon alloy as a phase change material, and a novel valved thermosyphon concept to control heat flow from a thermal storage tank to thermoelectric generators for dispatchable electricity production. Our results validate the system: the thermal storage system was able to receive heat input, evenly distribute heat to and from the phase change material with small temperature gradients, and controllably dispatch heat to a heat engine for electricity generation on demand. With the basic principle of this technology demonstrated, our next step will be to evaluate and improve system efficiency.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | SolarPACES 2017 |
Subtitle of host publication | International Conference on Concentrating Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems |
Editors | Rodrigo Mancilla, Christoph Richter |
Publisher | American Institute of Physics |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780735417571 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 8 Nov 2018 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | 23rd International Conference on Concentrating Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems, SolarPACES 2017 - Santiago, Chile Duration: 26 Sept 2017 → 29 Sept 2017 Conference number: 23 |
Publication series
Name | AIP Conference Proceedings |
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Volume | 2033 |
ISSN (Print) | 0094-243X |
ISSN (Electronic) | 1551-7616 |
Conference
Conference | 23rd International Conference on Concentrating Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems, SolarPACES 2017 |
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Abbreviated title | SolarPACES 2017 |
Country/Territory | Chile |
City | Santiago |
Period | 26/09/17 → 29/09/17 |