Heat Transfer Fluids for Power Generation and Thermal Storage
Heat transfer fluids are also utilized in solar energy generation, in concentrators such as parabolic, linear Fresnel, and trough-based systems. Several heat transfer media can be utilized, depending on the mechanical design and temperature requirements of the application.
- Water/steam is used in turbines for generating electricity.
- Molten salts, such as 60% NaNO3 and 40% KNO3 (220-600°C) for thermal storage
Synthetic/Aromatic Heat Transfer Fluids
- Liquid-phase only: Used to uniformly provide heat for steam in turbine generator,
- Vapor phase: Used for generating electricity in turbines, similar to steam but with greater thermal efficiency
