Thermal energy storage material based on 3D printed ceramic structures

3D thermal energy storage materials (3DTES)

Image of 3D TES using a molten salt as PCM Thermal energy storage (TES) systems stand out as an environmentally friendly technology that would enhance the efficient use and storage of solar energy and waste heat generated in industrial processes.
This patent allows developing 3D TES by combining a 3D printing process, using specific inks and patterned designs, and a subsequent phase change material (PCM) infiltration of the 3D structure.
3D TES avoids the liquid leakage of the molten PCM at high temperatures, are lightweight, mechanically and corrosion resistant, and exhibit an efficiency of the thermal energy storage up to 90%.
They can be employed in high temperature applications for thermal energy storage, such as in concentrated solar power plants, nuclear energy, recovery and reuse of waste heat from industrial processes, and aerospace.

Main innovations and advantages

• Development of highly porous 3D ceramic platforms using low costfeedstock with high chemical compatibility and thermal stability.
• 3D TES are easy to handle, self-supported, lightweight, andmechanically and corrosion resistant.
• Increment in the encapsulation capacity of the PCM (87%) and in theefficiency of the thermal energy storage (90%).
• Scalable process and widened to all kind of PCM, avoiding the liquidleakage in the molten state.
• For concentrated solar power applications, nuclear energy, recoveryand reuse of waste heat from industrial processes, and aerospace.