Utilization of Solar Thermal Sources for Thermochemical Hydrogen Production

摘要

The utilization of high temperature solar heat for the production of electricity and/or fuels is a popular concept. However, since solar concentrator systems are expensive and solar radiation intermittent, practical utilization requires processes that exhibit high conversion efficiencies and also incorporate energy storage. The production of hydrogen fulfills the requirement for energy storage and can fulfill the requirement for efficient heat utilization if thermochemical cycles are developed where the temperature and heat requirements of the process match the heat delivery characteristics of the solar receiver system. Cycles based on solid sulfate decomposition reactions may lead to efficient utilization of solar heat at practical temperatures. Higher temperature cycles involving oxide decomposition may also become feasible. (ERA citation 05:018729)