Study of a Thermochemical Heat Storage Reactor Filled with Polyaluminum Sulfate for Low-Temperature Application

Abstract

This paper investigates comprehensively the operational dynamics of a thermochemical heat storage (TCHS) reactor for low-temperature applications using polyaluminum sulfate and takes into consideration a developed simulation model with an experimentation validation. Significant concordances were found between the developed simulation model and the experimental results. Results reveal optimized conditions for the charging process using an electrical heater, with a heating temperature of 120°C at 10 K/min over 500 minutes. This achieves full material charging, with stabilized pressure drops at an equilibrium of 80 mbar, corresponding to a temperature of approximately 108°C, and yielding a thermal power of 950 W. An inlet vapor pressure of 18 mbar at 10°C for 5 hours is sufficient to completely discharge the bed, with pressure drops reaching around 30 mbar and a thermal power of 300 after reaction completion. Insights into conversion extents during both processes are provided, along with a remarkable thermal efficiency of 90% and a coefficient of performance (COP) of 97%, surpassing recommended theoretical values (50%). The study suggests further enhancing system performance through the design and implementation of a dedicated heat exchanger. The achievement of 75% of the targeted thermal power specification represents a significant milestone, offering valuable contributions towards the realization of sustainable technological advancements of both the reactor technology of TCHS and state-of-the-art thermal energy storage solutions. From the research, it is possible to infer further suggestions for enhancing this performance by designing and implementing a dedicated heat exchanger for both heat supply and retrieval mechanisms.