Graphite based encapsulation concept for a high temperature metallic latent thermal energy storage system

Abstract

Developing metallic latent thermal energy storage for replacement of battery capacity might enhance battery electric buses or trains by reduction of storage investment costs, mass and volume. However, they are based on metallic Phase Change Materials which are highly corrosive to structural materials such as conventional steel-based alloys. Building a long-term stable encapsulation growing out of lab-scale is one of the critical steps to enhance this promising storage technology. In this work, efforts were made to design and manufacture a storage prototype with storage material encapsulation based on different graphite grades. The stability and functionality of the prototype was proven over 26 phase change cycles under conditions similar to the application.