A novel solar-driven thermogalvanic cell with integrated heat storage capabilities

Low-grade heat sources like solar thermal radiation offer a vast energy resource. However, their low utilization rate limits energy recovery and conversion efficiency. Solar thermogalvanic cells, utilizing solar thermal radiation as a heat source, are considered an effective way to harness solar energy. However, their widespread application is hindered by performance instability due to periodic solar radiation fluctuations. This study developed composite electrodes with high conductivity, excellent photothermal properties, and heat storage capabilities, and applied them in thermogalvanic cells. Compared to traditional thermal chemical cells, the new heat storage electrode materials significantly enhance the stability and energy output efficiency. The results show that under temperature fluctuations, the new thermal chemical cells (EG/SA/LA-TGCs) significantly improve power output stability. The temperature difference increased from 6 degrees C to 17 degrees C, with the open-circuit voltage rising to 32 mV. Thanks to the electrodes' heat storage and release capability, the heat released by the electrodes sustains the cell's power generation. The discharge duration per unit volume of the electrode reached 12.74 min/cm(3), 15 times longer than traditional thermal chemical cells.