Latenssilämpövarastointi

Latenssilämpövarastointi, known in English as latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES), is a technology that stores thermal energy by changing the phase of a storage material. This phase change, typically from solid to liquid or liquid to solid, occurs at a relatively constant temperature and involves the absorption or release of a significant amount of energy, known as latent heat.

The core principle relies on materials called phase change materials (PCMs). When a PCM absorbs heat, it melts, storing the energy without a significant increase in temperature. Conversely, when the ambient temperature drops below the PCM's melting point, it solidifies, releasing the stored heat. This process can be reversed repeatedly, making LHTES a viable method for thermal energy management.

Compared to sensible heat storage, which relies on temperature changes in a material, LHTES can store much more energy in a smaller volume due to the high energy density associated with phase transitions. This makes it particularly attractive for applications where space is a constraint.

LHTES systems are utilized in various applications, including building climate control for heating and cooling, solar thermal energy storage, and temperature regulation in electronics and transportation. The choice of PCM depends on the desired operating temperature range, with materials like paraffins, salt hydrates, and fatty acids being common examples. Research and development continue to focus on improving the long-term stability, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency of LHTES systems.