Analysis of Molten Salt-Air Heat Exchangers for Large Scale Energy Storage Technologies

Molten salt-air heat exchanger thermal sizing design influences the performance and, in turn, the cost-effectiveness of a range of emerging technologies (such as concentrated solar power integrated pumped thermal energy storage, process heating, and high-temperature processes like H2 production) supporting the green transition.

As per 2019 reports, worldwide power generation capacity from molten salt storage in CSP plants was 60 GWh (thermal) and is expected to rise several folds by 2030 [1].

The primary goal of MAX4LES is to develop and provide a scientific benchmark for the optimal design of molten salt-air shell and tube heat exchangers.

I aim to identify the cause and effect of freezing and time required for melting the solidified molten salt inside the tubes of molten salt-air heat exchangers.

And to propose selective coatings to avoid the salt deposition on the tubes to prevent clogging that might lead to reduced performance and/or cause structural damage.

The project outcomes will bridge the existing knowledge gap and support the future development of molten salt-air heat exchangers.

The training at the host, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark, secondment at Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands, and the short stay and cooperation with the industrial partner, Aalborg CSP, Denmark, will provide me with the ideal technical, ethical, and cultural exchange and significantly strengthen my future career prospects.

The intersectoral approach will provide the basis for implementing the research outcomes commercially.

Overall, the project will set a foundation for me to continue focusing my expertise and skills to contribute toward meeting the long-term European Unions (EUs) Net-Zero decarbonization goals by 2030.