Thermal Energy Storage to Enable a Heat Commodification Market

The growing field of thermal energy storage (TES) is paving the way for a robust heat commodification market. Central to this transformation is the development of modular heat storage solutions that utilize latent heat and thermochemical-based thermal energy storage (TES). These systems capitalize on the significant enthalpy changes experienced during phase transformations, such as solid-to-liquid or solid-to-gas shifts. Unlike sensible heat-based systems, this approach minimizes heat loss over time due to the nearly unchanged storage material's temperature during heat storage and release. Despite these advantages, both latent and thermochemical TES face challenges that hinder their broad industrial application.

This Research Topic aims to address and overcome the existing challenges within both latent heat and thermochemical energy storage methodologies. The primary objective is to expand our understanding of the fundamental thermodynamic processes involved and to innovate solutions for their practical implementation. Key questions include the mechanisms of heat transfer enhancement, material design for effective exchange, and multi-faceted optimization strategies. Testing these hypotheses will strengthen the practical viability of TES and support the establishment of a sustainable heat commodification market.

To gather further insights in the dynamic landscape of TES development, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Heat transfer enhancement for phase change materials (PCM) and sorption materials
- Fundamental research of melting/solidification and sorption/desorption processes
- Design of PCM and/or thermochemical heat exchangers
- Development of PCM and/or thermochemical composite materials
- Multi-objective optimisation of various TES systems
- Applications of TES system in different sectors