Nuclear engineering

Electrical engineering

Physics

Meteorology

Automotive engineering

Thermal energy storage

Process engineering

Solar energy

Energy storage

Engineering

Passive solar building design

Power (physics)

Architectural engineering

Materials science

Thermal

Electricity

Solar chimney

Battery (electricity)

Environmental science

Thermodynamics

Cell Reports Physical Science

For countries to realize their carbon neutral targets, space heating is a tough nut to crack. Passive solar heating (represented by Trombe wall) integrating thermal storage is a promising solution. However, current integrated thermal storage technologies fail to meet the demand of continuous heat supply throughout the night. Adsorption thermal batteries (ATBs) possessing ultra-high energy storage density and negligible thermal loss are enticing alternatives. Here, we present a periodic summary of advanced technologies in ATBs, put forward challenges ahead, and propose a future outlook in space heating applications. Inspired by the solar-driven chimney effect, we propose a passive ATB concept aiming to reduce the power consumption of ventilation during thermal storage and release, and moreover, provide additional humidity regulation. Based on this concept, we conceive a passive solar heating system with day and night operation, zero electricity consumption, and controllable thermal comfort.

Passive day and night heating for zero energy buildings with solar-based adsorption thermal battery