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Construction and thermodynamic optimization of a transcritical pumped thermal energy storage system using ice slurry for cold storage

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  • Chen, Jiaxiang
  • Zhao, Bin
  • He, Meizhi
  • Long, Yingzi

Abstract

A novel transcritical pumped thermal energy storage (T-PTES) system is proposed in this paper, consisting of transcritical heat pump and heat engine cycles. Thermal and cold energy storage (TES and CES) are designed and ice slurry is applied for CES under subcritical conditions, thus making the T-PTES system independent of external heat sources. Butene, isobutane and butane are selected as the energy storage mediums (ESMs). The cycle configuration and thermodynamic performance of the system are comprehensively optimized. The charging compression and discharging expansion processes are both set to be single-stage to enhance the overall performance. The selections of TES and CES stages are discussed in detail, considering the heat transfer matching characteristics between the thermal storage fluid and supercritical/subcritical ESM. In-depth optimization of the charging and discharging pressures showed a maximum round trip efficiency (RTE) of 63.99 % for butene, which can be further improved to exceed 70 % based on better equipment performance. The minimum heat transfer temperature difference of heat exchangers, especially of the CES for ESM liquefaction on the discharging side, has a significant impact on the RTE. A heater for ice particle melting and a recuperator for ice slurry generation are designed to ensure the stability of water supercooling state in the supercooler and reduce the associated cold loss and improve the overall performance. The performance of proposed T-PTES system is perfect, and the results are expected to provide theoretical and data support for the practical application and development of PTES.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen, Jiaxiang & Zhao, Bin & He, Meizhi & Long, Yingzi, 2025. "Construction and thermodynamic optimization of a transcritical pumped thermal energy storage system using ice slurry for cold storage," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 319(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:319:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225004712
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.134829
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