Solar thermochemistry represents a cutting-edge field that leverages high-temperature thermal energy to produce valuable chemicals and feedstocks, while also providing a stable means for intermediate- and long-term energy storage. This field offers a unique pathway for integrating renewable energy sources, such as concentrating solar power, into various sectors beyond electrical power, including industrial and agricultural applications. Recent research has focused on improving mixed ionic- and electronic-conducting (MIEC) redox-active metal oxide materials for thermochemical cycles that produce hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) from water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Computational techniques have been employed with some success, establishing benchmarks and procedures for comparison. However, the field is expanding to include other promising applications, such as nitrogen (N2) recovery from air, ammonia synthesis, and carbon-based storage chemistries. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on the reactors, systems, and operating strategies necessary for implementing these chemistries in a scalable and economically viable manner. Despite these advancements, there remain significant gaps in understanding and technology that must be addressed to fully realize the potential of solar thermochemistry.
This Research Topic aims to illustrate the increasing cross-discipline reach, breadth, and sophistication of the field, contributing to its ongoing growth and expansion. The main objectives include exploring novel thermochemical cycles, advanced materials, and innovative reactors and systems. Specific questions to be addressed include: What are the most promising new materials for thermochemical applications? How can we optimize reactors and systems for better efficiency and scalability? What are the technoeconomic implications of these advancements?
We will accept the following article types: Original Research, Methods, Review and Mini Review. To gather further insights in the broad and evolving field of solar thermochemistry, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Novel thermochemical cycles for production of feedstocks and chemicals
• Novel thermochemical approaches to energy storage
• Advanced materials for thermochemistry
• Advanced methods for discovery and development of materials for thermochemistry
• Novel reactors and systems for thermochemistry or incorporating thermochemistry
• Engineering and technoeconomic analysis of materials, processes, and systems relevant to or incorporating thermochemistry
• Significant demonstrations of thermochemical processes and devices
Keywords: Thermochemistry, Fuels, Chemicals, High-temperature, Solar
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
