초록

An energy storage medium that can be raised to a high energy state which is comprised of a gel of polyethylene oxide, water, and a salt which causes gelation of polyethylene oxide and water at or below about 90°C., and a method for storing energy with the medium.

대표청구항 ▼

A method of storing energy which comprises heating a solution of polyethylene oxide, water, and a salt which causes gelation of polyethylene oxide and water to a temperature at or below about 90°C., thereby forming a gel with a high energy state. A method of energy storage and transfer which compris

A method of storing energy which comprises heating a solution of polyethylene oxide, water, and a salt which causes gelation of polyethylene oxide and water to a temperature at or below about 90°C., thereby forming a gel with a high energy state. A method of energy storage and transfer which comprises the steps of: (a) contacting a solution of polyethylene oxide, water, and a salt which causes gelation of polyethylene oxide in water with a warm medium such that the temperature of the solution is raised to at or below about 90°C., thereby forming a gel with a high energy state, (b) storing the energy transferred from the warm medium in the gel for a period of time, and (c) contacting the gel with a cool medium whereby the gel goes through a phase change to liquid form and the energy stored therein is transferred to the cool medium.