Investigation of a Novel Thermochemical Reactor for Medium- and Low-Temperature Heating Applications in Buildings

Abstract

This research paper investigates a novel triangular honeycomb thermochemical energy storage reactor for low- and medium-temperature applications in buildings, emphasizing its potential to enhance sustainable heating. Using a validated 3D numerical model, the reactor’s performance is analyzed in depth across various configurations, focusing on key parameters such as energy storage density, pressure drop, internal air flow distribution, and round-trip efficiency. Results show that the reactor achieved an energy storage density of 872 kJ/kg and a round-trip thermal efficiency of 41.51% under optimal conditions. Additionally, the triangular honeycomb reactor (30°, 60, and 90°) configuration achieved the highest temperature lift of 48.7 °C. In a feasibility analysis for residential heating in northern China, the reactor with 30°, 60°, and 90° angles required 24.91% less volume to meet daily heating demands compared to other configurations. This study contributes valuable insights for the development of efficient, low-carbon heating solutions for low- and medium-temperature applications in buildings, offering interesting advancements in the field of thermochemical energy storage technology.