Development of a novel inorganic phase change material optimization technique to enhance the operating temperature for future concentrated solar power plant applications

To meet expanding energy demands, driven by growing population and technological advances, the global focus is shifting toward sustainable energy sources, with concentrated solar power systems. Combining the advantages of phase change material (PCM) as an energy storage medium in solar power systems can enhance the thermal efficiency of the power plant. Hence, selection of suitable PCM for the energy storage system is of utmost importance. Conventionally, nitrate salts are being used. However, the working temperatures are limited to 550 °C. Here, in this work, three different carbonate eutectic ternary salts (Na2CO3, K2CO3, Li2CO3) were chosen as PCM and optimized combinations with three different mixing ratios. The particle size and elements were analysed using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) for both pure and ternary salts. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was utilized to identify the chemical interaction between pure salts and ternary salts. DSC and TGA are done on SET A, SET B, and SET C. The results display the operating temperature range is between 407 °C and 925 °C. The three sets of XRD peaks emerge in the same range of pure salts, which indicates that the LiNaK carbonate salt combination demonstrates superior thermophysical properties, including the latent heat of fusion and thermal conductivity. Novel eutectic ternary molten salt mixture combinations for future generations of CSP plant applications. Optimization of eutectic ternary molten salt PCM at different proportions. Characterization of PCM. DSC and TGA results are evaluate the melting point and degradation point.