CN

With the comprehensive advancement of the "dual carbon" goals, the large-scale application of new energy storage technologies is imperative. Among these technologies, thermal energy storage and thermomechanical energy storage are important components of large-scale new energy storage technologies. As one of the thermal energy storage technologies, phase change thermal energy storage has attracted widespread attention due to its high heat storage density and constant operating temperature, and is gradually being applied on a large scale. As an emerging thermomechanical energy storage technology, Carnot Batteries have the advantages of large capacity, fast response and high round-trip efficiency. Moreover, they are not restricted by geographical conditions, thus boasting broad application prospects in power system regulation and regional energy supply.

As important components of large-scale thermal energy storage and thermomechanical energy storage technologies, phase change thermal energy storage (PCTES) and Carnot Batteries have attracted widespread attention from the academic community, industry, and government authorities. Significant progress has also been made in the research and development of PCTES and Carnot Batteries across the levels of mechanism, materials, devices, and systems. Based on the research foundation, the following four prospects for PCTES and Carnot Batteries are proposed:(1) The solid-liquid phase change mechanism needs further clarification, especially the construction and experimental verification of a series of models from the nanoscale to the macroscale;(2) The relationship between heat transfer and thermal storage characteristics and microstructure of metallic phase change materials under multiple cycles requires in-depth exploration, particularly the quantitative relationship;(3) Multi-objective,multi-level,and high-degree-of-freedom optimization of the structure of phase change thermal storage units should be carried out, such as the two-level structure optimization of flow channels and fins;(4) The R&D of key components of Carnot Batteries, multi-scenario system coupling, intelligent operation and regulation, and economic evaluation are the keys to the promotion and application of Carnot Battery technology.