ENERGY Storage

Energy storage systems are of great importance for the on-demand use of seasonal renewable sources, such as solar energy. Calcium looping (CaL) has been proposed to be used as thermochemical energy storage (TCES) system for concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. In this context, solar energy can drive the endothermic reaction in a calciner reactor, while the reverse carbonation reaction will produce energy via a power cycle (e.g. Rankine cycle). This is a promising alternative to the molten salts technology which is characterized by short time storage as well as low operating temperatures. On the other hand, carbonation reaction is highly exothermic and can take place at temperatures >850°C, increasing the power cycle efficiency. Other advantages of using Ca-based materials , like limestone and dolomite,  are the non-toxicity and availability of raw materials, as well as their capability to be stored for long periods of time at ambient conditions.

The Laboratory of Petrochemical technology, LPT, participates in SOCRATCES (https://socratces.eu/)-a Horizon2020 project- contributing in activities related with  the in-depth experimental and theoretical study and modeling of the CaL reactions in carbonation and calcination steps as well as the reactors design which are in the core of the process. The ultimate goal of SOCRATCES is to build a pilot-scale prototype of the CaL-TCES system increasing the technology’s maturity level (TRL5).