SHAPE-X · Salt-Hydrates with Added Particles via Experimental XCT as Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage

Thermal energy storage (TES) is central to decoupling energy production from use, a prerequisite for deep renewable integration. Latent heat storage with phase change materials (PCMs) offers high energy density and sustainability, but their low thermal conductivity severely limits performance. Conventional enhancement methods—such as fins or particle-filled composites—have not reached their theoretical potential. Micro-scale phenomena like particle clustering, segregation, and the absence of conductive pathways remain poorly understood, as current diagnostics provide only indirect insights.SHAPE-X (Salt-Hydrate with Added Particles via Experimental XCT) tackles this challenge by pioneering in-situ, in-operando 4D x-ray computed tomography (XCT) to visualize particle effects on heat transfer during PCM phase change. This breakthrough will identify the fundamental causes of underperformance in SH-PCM composites and enable the rational design of optimized formulations with significantly improved conductivity (3–4 W/mK).The project integrates material characterization, XCT imaging, and multi-physics modeling, shifting SH-PCM development from trial-and-error to predictive design. A secondment at SINTEF Energi will test SH-PCMs in a mesoscale prototype, validating real-world behavior. Through this approach, SHAPE-X will deliver stable, high-performance particle-enhanced SH-PCMs, advancing TES technologies vital for large-scale renewable integration. It will also equip the fellow with state-of-the-art experimental and modeling expertise, positioning him as a leading researcher in material and thermal engineering.