Experimental investigation into the performance of novel SrCl2-based composite material for thermochemical energy storage

The aim of this research is to explore the potential of a new salt-based thermochemical composite material for long-term storage of heat. Thermal energy storage reduces the mismatch between the supply and demand of renewable energy sources. The salt, SrCl2 center dot 6H(2)O, and the porous host structure, cement was investigated and compared to the well-researched zeolite 13X. These materials were studied over several cycles using a lab-scale open packed bed reactor. The materials cycled well, with a dehydration temperature of 150 degrees C. Cement-SrCl2 center dot 6H(2)O (50 wt.%) and zeolite 13X proved promising candidates with energy densities of 136 kWh m(-3) and 164 kWh m(-3) respectively. A thermodynamic analysis has also been conducted for the system. Further research is needed to find strategies to improve the energy storage density or salt loading into porous materials in order for this technology to become commercially viable. This research demonstrates the process to achieve a high energy density over repeated cycles.

Automated summary

This research investigated a new salt-based thermochemical composite material for long-term heat storage, comparing its performance with zeolite 13X and finding promising candidates for high energy density applications. Further research is needed to commercialize the technology.