A review of eutectic salts as phase change energy storage materials in the context of concentrated solar power

To solve the problems of energy crisis and environmental pollution, the use of thermal energy storage technology in renewable energy systems can eliminate the difference between energy supply and demand and improve the energy efficiency. This review summarizes the structure and application of concentrating solar power station. The preparation and characterization of eutectic salts as phase change materials are discussed herein. Furthermore, the methods to improve the thermal properties and stability of eutectic salt are described in detail. The addition of high-conductivity materials and the optimization process of heat storage unit structure and packaging technology are summarized and discussed. Finally, analysis of the application potential and challenges of eutectic salt in the field of high-temperature thermal energy storage in the near future is presented.