A New Energy Cycle Utilizing Solar Pumped Laser and Magnesium

Abstract

Securing energy storing media is an essential factor for utilizing solar power that needs to be leveled out for its spatial and temporal variation. Magnesium is the most promising material as an energy storming medium and carrier for an energy cycle, owing to its abundance, compactness, compatibility and versatility compared to other energy medium candidates such as hydrogen and biomass as well as other metals. Essential and unique technology for the energy cycle is the reduction process of magnesium from its oxidized form that requires four thousand degrees that is inaccessible merely by focusing natural sunlight. An energy qualifying process from solar to laser radiation, solar pumped laser, plays an essential role in the cycle. An overview of key technologies consisting of the energy cycle is given.