Storing Summer Heat for Winter

Revolutionizing the Heating Industry with Thermal Energy Accumulation Technology

The saying "prepare the sleds in summer and the wagon in winter" reflects the latest trends in scientific advancements. Scientists at the Swiss institute Eidgenössische Materialprüfungs-und ForschungsAnstalt (EMPA) have developed a technology for storing thermal energy with the aim of globalizing eco-friendly energy. This innovation allows for harnessing solar energy to warm up spaces. The thermal accumulation feature enables utilizing stored heat during winter by adjusting heat exchange with a simple switch. This system remains portable and efficiently heats the designated area as needed.

The key agent responsible for accumulating thermal energy is a mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Supplementary components effectively capture and retain heat from the eco-engine.

The liquid, comprised of 50% NaOH, gradually moves through spiral hoses in water tanks designed for the hydroxide to react with steam, heating up to high temperatures. The hot water is then channeled into a standard technical system that heats the air.

At this stage, the researchers at EMPA have developed a prototype of a thermal energy accumulation system. Collaborating with industry partners, they aim to implement an ergonomic version of the technology suitable for residential areas.

The principle behind thermal accumulation heating involves storing heat in thermal accumulators, which, when heated by electrical energy, release the stored energy. The experimental setup is capable of long-term storage of thermal energy.