Latenssilämpövarastot

Latenssilämpövarastot, also known as latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES), are a type of thermal energy storage system that utilizes the phase change of a material to store and release heat. This phase change, typically from solid to liquid or liquid to solid, occurs at a specific temperature and involves the absorption or release of a significant amount of energy, known as latent heat, without a change in temperature. This characteristic makes LHTES systems highly efficient for storing large quantities of thermal energy in a relatively small volume.

The core component of a latenssilämpövarasto is the phase change material (PCM). PCMs are chosen based on their melting point, latent heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and stability. Common PCMs include paraffins, salt hydrates, and fatty acids. During the charging phase, heat is supplied to the PCM, causing it to melt and store energy. In the discharging phase, as the ambient temperature drops or a demand for heat arises, the PCM solidifies, releasing the stored latent heat.

Latenssilämpövarastot offer several advantages over sensible heat storage systems, which store heat by changing the temperature of a material. Their ability to store heat at a constant temperature is particularly beneficial for applications where a stable temperature is required, such as in solar thermal systems for heating buildings or in industrial processes. They can also reduce the size and weight of storage systems compared to sensible heat storage for the same energy capacity.

However, challenges remain, including the relatively low thermal conductivity of many PCMs, which can limit charge and discharge rates, and the long-term stability and encapsulation of PCMs. Despite these challenges, latenssilämpövarastot are a promising technology for improving energy efficiency and enabling the integration of renewable energy sources into the energy grid.