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Molten Salts Tanks Thermal Energy Storage: Aspects to Consider during Design

Author

Listed:
  • Cristina Prieto

    (Department of Energy Engineering, Universidad de Sevilla, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
    Build to Zero S.L, c/Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, 2, 41092 Sevilla, Spain)

  • Adrian Blindu

    (Department of Energy Engineering, Universidad de Sevilla, 41092 Sevilla, Spain)

  • Luisa F. Cabeza

    (GREiA Research Group, Universitat de Lleida, Pere de Cabrera s/n, 25001 Lleida, Spain)

  • Juan Valverde

    (Virtualmechanics S.L, c/Arquitectura 1, 41015 Sevilla, Spain
    Departamento de Matemática Aplicada 2, Universidad de Sevilla, Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, 41092 Sevilla, Spain)

  • Guillermo García

    (Build to Zero S.L, c/Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, 2, 41092 Sevilla, Spain)

Abstract

Concentrating solar power plants use sensible thermal energy storage, a mature technology based on molten salts, due to the high storage efficiency (up to 99%). Both parabolic trough collectors and the central receiver system for concentrating solar power technologies use molten salts tanks, either in direct storage systems or in indirect ones. But even though this is a mature technology, it still shows challenges in its implementation and operation. This paper underscores the critical importance of stringent design criteria for molten salt tanks in thermal storage technology. Focusing on the potential ramifications of design failures, the study explores various dimensions where an inadequate design can lead to severe consequences, even jeopardizing the viability of the entire technology. Key areas discussed include structural integrity, corrosion, thermal shock, thermal expansions, and others. By elucidating the multifaceted risks associated with design shortcomings, this paper aims to emphasize the necessity of thorough reviews and adherence to robust design principles for ensuring the success, safety, and sustainability of thermal storage technology.

Suggested Citation

  • Cristina Prieto & Adrian Blindu & Luisa F. Cabeza & Juan Valverde & Guillermo García, 2023. "Molten Salts Tanks Thermal Energy Storage: Aspects to Consider during Design," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(1), pages 1-19, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2023:i:1:p:22-:d:1303549
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    2. Nieto-Maestre, Javier & Muñoz-Sánchez, Belén & Fernández, Angel G. & Faik, Abdessamad & Grosu, Yaroslav & García-Romero, Ana, 2020. "Compatibility of container materials for Concentrated Solar Power with a solar salt and alumina based nanofluid: A study under dynamic conditions," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 146(C), pages 384-396.
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    4. Ghaddar, N. K. & Al-Marafie, A. M. & Al-Kandari, A., 1989. "Numerical simulation of stratification behaviour in thermal storage tanks," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 32(3), pages 225-239.
    5. Tagle-Salazar, Pablo D. & Prieto, Cristina & López-Román, Anton & Cabeza, Luisa F., 2023. "A transient heat losses model for two-tank storage systems with molten salts," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 219(P1).
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