Industrial Decarbonization Potential of Earth-based Particulate High-temperature Thermal Energy Storage

Abstract

Industrial decarbonization demands efficient high-temperature thermal energy storage (HT-TES) systems capable of sustained operation above 1000 °C. However, developing scalable, economical, and high-performing HT-TES materials that can withhold these temperatures are challenging. Herein, we systematically evaluate the potential of earth-based particulates as HT-TES for high-temperature industries, considering key factors such as resource availability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for long-duration storage. Through optimizing particulate manufacturing and system design, we show the feasibility of integrating these materials with existing industrial infrastructure to enable long-duration thermal energy storage at high temperatures. A comparative life cycle assessment reveals that earth-based particulate HT-TES systems could reduce global CO2 emissions by 0.7-2.3 million tonnes annually compared to synthetic alternatives, offering a scalable pathway to decarbonize energy-intensive industries.