Development and characterisation of an alginate and expanded graphite based composite for thermochemical heat storage

Abstract Thermochemical heat storage is one of the most attractive technologies to store from solar thermal energy or waste industrial processes for its high density and long-term capability. This research presents a novel expanded graphite/alginate polymer matrix encapsulated with hydrated salts as highly efficient thermochemical materials. Through simple synthesis method, composite material can be sized shaped fit multiple applications, easily scaled where needed. reversible hydration dehydration reaction, incorporated CaCl 2 salt release heat. Thermal generators low grade sources (< 200 °C) appropriate . A loading value 84% has been achieved visible porosity maintained. Static used study charge whereas flow humid air through packed bed discharge reaction temperature uplifts between 10–14 °C were observed. vermiculite/CaCl comparison in both reactions. Additionally, bulk density, surface porosity, area, moisture sorption conductivity are considered. The results show that materials developed this achieve better packing comparable comparing conventional composite, but higher leading enhanced efficiency. Graphical