In collaboration with the University of Bath, researchers at Swansea University's SPECIFIC Innovation and Knowledge Centre achieved a significant feat in thermal storage with innovative materials. Leveraging alginate, a cost-effective, abundant, and non-toxic seaweed derivative, the team demonstrates scalability and versatility for various applications.
The process involves dissolving sodium alginate, incorporating expanded graphite, and employing two gelation methods: freezing in a mold or drop-casting into thermochemical calcium salt. Compared to previous materials like vermiculite, these alginate-based beads showcase a remarkable fourfold improvement in heat storage capacity.
The beads are efficiently packed in a fixed bed that ensures optimal airflow, allowing the same heat energy storage capacity in just a quarter of the volume. This aspect marks a significant stride in thermal storage research.
Image Credit: SPECIFIC, Swansea University
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Thermal Storage Materials
- Swansea University develops heat-storing materials using alginate, showcasing a fourfold improvement in heat storage capacity compared to previous materials.
- Scalable Heat Storage Solutions
- The use of alginate-based beads in thermal storage allows for efficient packing in a fixed bed, optimizing airflow and reducing the storage volume needed.
- Versatile Applications of Thermal Storage
- The innovative alginate-based materials offer versatility for various applications and demonstrate potential for disruptive innovation in thermal storage solutions.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Renewable Energy
- The development of heat-storing materials using alginate presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in renewable energy solutions.
- Construction
- Scalable and efficient thermal storage solutions with alginate-based materials can drive disruptive innovation in the construction industry, improving energy efficiency.
- Energy Storage
- The use of alginate-based materials for thermal storage has the potential to disrupt the energy storage industry by offering more efficient and cost-effective solutions.
