Design of effective heat transfer structures for performance maximization of a closed thermochemical energy storage reactor through topology optimization

This study addresses the need for heat transfer intensification in closed thermochemical energy storage reactors using topology optimization as a design approach. We introduce a novel topology optimization framework to simultaneously optimize fins geometry and amount of enhancer material while meeting specific discharge time, bed size, and bed porosity requirements. The proposed topology optimization framework is thoroughly tested by optimally designing innovative fin structures in a reference thermochemical storage reactor aimed at heat storage in industrial applications and operated with Strontium Bromide in the range 150-250 °C. The generated designs show performance improvement up to +286% compared to state-of-the-art designs. Our findings also indicate that the optimal amount of enhancer material varies significantly; large bed sizes with high packing factors maximize reactor energy density while highly packed reactive beds provide a larger amount of energy in fixed discharge times compared to less packed reactive beds. Finally, the benefits and limitations of the proposed topological optimization approach, as well as the extent to which the optimal designs found are generally applicable are thoroughly discussed to provide guidelines for configuring high-performing closed system thermochemical energy storage reactors.