THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE IN CONCRETE: COUPLED NUMERICAL-EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN APPROACHES

This thesis investigates the use of concrete as a sensible heat storage material for high-temperature thermal energy storage (TES) applications. The work is structured around two complementary approaches. The experimental approach focused on the thermo-physical characterization of a new concrete formulation, optimized for TES systems. Tests were conducted in collaboration with the GREiA research group at the University of Lleida, assessing thermal conductivity, open porosity, and resistance to thermal cycling. In parallel, the numerical approach involved CFD modelling of storage modules to analyse the direct interaction between hot air and concrete surfaces across different geometric configurations. The simulations explored temperature distribution, heat transfer efficiency, and transient thermal behaviour. By integrating experimental data and numerical insights, the thesis identifies effective strategies to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and durability of thermal energy storage systems, with potential applications in concentrated solar power plants and high-temperature industrial processes.