SiC-Coated Thermal Storage Alloy for Corrosion-Resistant Solar Heat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermal energy storage mediums in concentrated solar power systems, such as molten salts, corrode containment units and are not efficient for safe and efficient energy storage.
Innovation Solution
A transformative alloy composition of Al—B—Si—Fe embedded in a SiC outer layer, which is carburized and oxidized to form Al2O3—B2O3—SiO2—Fe3O4, providing a high-temperature thermal energy storage medium with enhanced heat absorption and desorption capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If molten salts are used as thermal energy storage medium, then thermal energy storage capability is provided, but corrosion of containment units occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A protective coating layer is applied to the containment units to serve as an intermediary barrier between the molten salt and the container material. This coating prevents direct contact and corrosion while allowing thermal energy storage functionality to proceed uninterrupted.
Solution Approach 2:
The containment system uses composite material construction, combining resistant base materials with protective coating layers. This composite structure provides both mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, enabling safe long-term thermal energy storage.
2Use of energy by moving object
If existing thermal energy storage mediums are used, then energy storage function is achieved, but safety and efficiency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention modifies the chemical and physical parameters of the thermal energy storage medium by formulating specific molten salt compositions with controlled purity levels and additive packages. These parameter changes enhance safety characteristics and efficiency while maintaining the energy storage function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements localized quality enhancements through targeted protective coatings on containment surfaces and selective material treatments in areas subject to highest stress or temperature. This ensures safety and efficiency are optimized where most needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The Al—B—Si—Fe/Al2O3—B2O3—SiO2—Fe3O4 medium offers improved heat capacity and sensible heat absorption, enabling efficient and safe thermal energy storage and transfer for extended periods, enhancing the efficiency of solar power generation systems.
Implementation Method 1
the solar energy from the solar collector is transferred to the embedded alloy
Implementation Method 2
a SiC outer layer or coating
Implementation Method 3
oxidizing the Al—B—Si—Fe alloy by oxygen diffusion resulting in Al2O3—B2O3—SiO2—Fe3O4
Data Source
AI summary
Compositions, devices, systems, and methods directed to concentrating solar power are disclosed. In certain aspects, the disclosure is directed to a heat storage material comprising a transformative alloy composition (internal core component) Al—B—Si—Fe/Al2O3—B2O3—SiO2—Fe3O4 embedded in a SiC outer coating.