What is a molecular solar thermal energy storage system?

photoisomers are referred to as molecular solar thermal energy storage systems (MOST), also known as solar thermal fuels (STF). In this review, we introduce the functional principles and criteria of a general MOST system, then introduce to a broad audience three key candidates and show the efforts made so far to achieve recent advances in results.

What are the latest advances in thermal energy storage systems?

This review highlights the latest advancements in thermal energy storage systems for renewable energy, examining key technological breakthroughs in phase change materials (PCMs), sensible thermal storage, and hybrid storage systems. Practical applications in managing solar and wind energy in residential and industrial settings are analyzed.

How can solar energy be stored?

An alternative is the direct conversion from solar energy to stored chemical energy. This can be achieved, in principle, via the conversion of water to hydrogen 6 or the reduction of carbon dioxide to methanol 7, which, however, involves gaseous species. Energy storage can also be accomplished through photoisomerization 8.

What is the importance of energy storage time?

The essential significance of MOST technology is its ability to store solar energy for on-demand energy release, alleviating the natural intermittency of solar supply. En- ergy storage time determines one of the key performances of such energy systems.

How can a solar system absorb thermal energy from a photoisomerization?

An alternative strategy is to combine solar energy from photoisomerization with latent heat from phase transitions. Using this approach, MOST systems can also absorb thermal energy from the local environment in addition to the stored solar en- ergy.

Can a photoisomer convert solar energy to stored chemical energy?

Direct conversion of solar energy to stored chemical energy can be achieved through photoisomerization. Here, authors exploit thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials as a photosensitizer and signal transducer to harness solar energy, to maximize solar spectrum harvesting without sacrificing energy storage time.