The development prospects of phase change energy storage technology

What is a phase change material (PCM)?

The global energy transition requires new technologies for efficiently managing and storing renewable energy. In the early 20th century, Stanford Olshansky discovered the phase change storage properties of paraffin, advancing phase change materials (PCMs) technology .

What is photothermal phase change energy storage?

To meet the demands of the global energy transition, photothermal phase change energy storage materials have emerged as an innovative solution. These materials, utilizing various photothermal conversion carriers, can passively store energy and respond to changes in light exposure, thereby enhancing the efficiency of energy systems.

Are energy storage technologies passed down in a single lineage?

Most technologies are not passed down in a single lineage. The development of energy storage technology (EST) has become an important guarantee for solving the volatility of renewable energy (RE) generation and promoting the transformation of the power system.

What is an example of a phase change research?

For example, research on phase change materials, development of hydrogen production catalysts, research on the electrolyte's electrochemical performance in supercapacitors, and the application of sodium borohydride in hydrogen production only appear in one stage and gradually disappear.

How has China accelerated its energy storage development?

Specifically, as a developing country facing significant challenges such as environmental pollution and carbon emissions, China has accelerated its energy storage development and widely promoted the advancement of energy storage technologies . This has led to a narrowing gap between China, the US, and Europe.

What is the operation principle of encapsulated phase change material (PCM)?

Operation principle of encapsulated phase change material (PCM). Reprinted from Ref . with permission from Elsevier. Microencapsulation technology can provide fairly steady volume, excellent thermal cycle stability and high heat transfer surface for PCM heat storage .