An innovative integration of parabolic trough collector with advanced thermochemical heat storage systems

Abstract

Traditional thermochemical systems use heat transfer fluids for indirect heating, which often results in significant heat loss and low efficiency. To address these issues, this study proposes a novel thermochemical storage scheme that utilizes a parabolic trough collector to directly heat Ca(OH)₂, thereby enhancing thermal efficiency and reducing heat loss. The effects of heat absorbing reactor radius and reflector edge angle on system performance were investigated with a focus on optimizing both thermal efficiency and operational safety. The results indicate that the optimal heat absorbing reactor radius is 0.12 m, balancing thermal flux density and stress. The ideal reflector edge angle is determined to be 90°, providing the best compromise between efficiency and temperature uniformity. Additionally, the effects of bed porosity, steam outlet pressure, and initial reactant temperature were studied to determine the optimal operating conditions. Finally, the system was validated using meteorological data from a parabolic trough power plant in Xinjiang, China, showing a daily energy conversion efficiency of 60.74 %, and a chemical energy conversion efficiency of 52.21 %, confirming the system’s feasibility and reliability.