GRANULAR THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE MEDIUMS AND DEVICES FOR THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS

摘要

The invention provides compositions for use in thermal energy storage systems, and methods for storing thermal energy. A thermal energy storage system is provided, comprising: (a) a granular thermal energy storage medium comprising at least a first size class and a second size class,- wherein the individual granules of each size class deviate from the average granular size for that size class by no more than about +/- 50%; wherein first size class is the largest size class; wherein the ratio of the average size of the first size class to the average size of the second size class is at least about.2:1; and (b) one or more conduits disposed within the medium, and arranged to receive a source of thermal energy.