Latent heat storage for solar steam systems

Solar thermal systems, including direct steam generation in the absorbers, require isothermal energy storage systems. One option to fulfil this requirement is the application of phase change materials (PCMs) to absorb or release energy. The implementation of cost-effective storage systems demands the compensation of the low thermal heat conductivity that is characteristic for the candidate materials for PCM. Solar steam generation for power plants requires latent heat storage systems for a saturation temperature range between 200 degrees C and 320 degrees C. This paper describes the basic concepts investigated and first results of research activities aiming at the demonstration of a storage system using steam provided by parabolic trough collectors.