Solar Energy storage in organic molecules (Photon Energy Storage Materials –PESM)

PESM are able to capture and store solar energy using thermal ‘switchable’ molecules. During charging, the sunlight is absorbed by the molecule which either modifies its bond or switches its atoms to another position. During discharge, the molecule releases energy using a catalyst, a low level of sunlight energy or a low heat input. ?

The smart utilization of photons is attracting attention at a global level with respect to renewable energy and information technology. However, it is still impossible to store photons as batteries as condensers do for electrons. Present technologies utilize the energy of photons in situ, such as solar panels, or in spontaneous relaxation processes, such as photoluminescence. Experiments are still at the laboratory stage, but they are in competition with thermal storage and phase change materials. Stability of the molecule remains a main issue.

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