Review of Thermal Energy Storage Materials for Application in Large-Scale Integrated Energy Systems—Methodology for Matching Heat Storage Solutions for Given Applications

Abstract

This article is a broad literature review of materials used and defined as potential for heat storage processes. Both single-phase and phase-change materials were considered. An important part of this paper is the definition of the toxicity of heat storage materials and other factors that disqualify their use depending on the application. Based on the literature analysis, a methodology was developed for selecting the optimal heat storage material depending on the typical parameters of the process and the method of heat transfer and storage. Based on the presented results, a solution was proposed for three temperature ranges: 100 °C (low-temperature storage), 300 °C (medium-temperature storage) and 500 °C (high-temperature storage). For all defined temperature levels, it is possible to adapt solid, liquid or phase-change materials for heat storage. However, it is essential to consider the characteristics of the specific system and to assess the advantages and disadvantages of the accumulation material used. Rock materials are characterised by similar thermophysical parameters and relatively low prices compared with their universality, while liquid energy storage allows for greater flexibility in power generation while maintaining the operational parameters of the heat source.