lämpövarastomateriaaleiksi

Lämpövarastomateriaalit, known in English as thermal energy storage materials (TES materials), are substances capable of storing thermal energy and releasing it when needed. These materials are crucial for improving energy efficiency in various applications, from building heating and cooling to industrial processes and renewable energy systems. The primary function of a lämpövarastomateriaali is to absorb heat during periods of surplus and discharge it during periods of demand, thereby balancing energy supply and consumption.

There are several categories of lämpövarastomateriaalit based on their storage mechanism. Sensible heat storage materials store thermal energy by increasing their temperature. Examples include water, rocks, and concrete, which are relatively inexpensive and readily available but often require large volumes for significant storage. Latent heat storage materials utilize the phase change of a substance, such as melting or freezing, to store and release large amounts of energy at a nearly constant temperature. Phase change materials (PCMs) are the most common type, with examples like paraffin waxes, salt hydrates, and hydrated salts. Thermochemical heat storage materials store energy through reversible chemical reactions, offering the potential for very high energy densities and long-term storage, but they are often more complex and costly.

The selection of a lämpövarastomateriaali depends on factors such as the required storage temperature, capacity, cycle life, cost, safety, and environmental impact. Research and development continue to focus on improving the performance and reducing the cost of these materials to enable wider adoption and enhance the integration of renewable energy sources.