Systematic Concept Study of Brayton Batteries for Coupled Generation of Electricity, Heat, and Cooling

Abstract

This study presents a systematic analysis of Brayton batteries using Ebsilon Professional® simulations. Over 200,000 concept configurations were evaluated, with less than 1% proving physically feasible. The research aimed to assess electricity generation; coupled generation of electricity and heat; coupled generation of electricity and cooling; and coupled generation of electricity, heat, and cooling, all with or without waste heat integration. Efficiency ranged from 20% to 50% for electricity generation alone, with higher efficiencies at a compressor discharge temperature of 625 °C compared to 450 °C. Co-generation improved the overall efficiency, although at the expense of power efficiency. Notably, simultaneous electricity, heat, and cooling generation solutions were absent within the study’s parameters. Lead concepts, predominantly air-based systems with or without charging line recuperators and heat exchange at various stages, were identified. These will undergo detailed dynamic system simulations, focusing on thermal energy storage. Comparison with the existing literature was limited due to differing parameters and topologies, highlighting the value of this systematic analysis in identifying optimal solutions.