Finite-time thermodynamic optimization of an absorption energy storage heating system based on a certain total heat transfer area

Absorption energy storage (AES) can effectively address the intermittency and instability of renewable energy, enabling its efficient utilization and storage. To optimize the performance of AES systems, this study establishes a finite-time thermodynamic model of an AES heating system, comprehensively considering the internal irreversibility within the system as well as the energy storage and release time ratio. The study investigates the relationship between energy storage efficiency (ESE) and the heating rate of the system, as well as factors affecting system performance. Under the condition of a fixed total heat transfer area, the heat exchanger area allocation is optimized, yielding optimal area ratios for the four components as 31 %, 21 %, 26 %, and 22 %, respectively. Through the optimized model, the maximum heating rate per unit total heat exchange area increased by 4.8 times. Additionally, the impacts of irreversibility factor, the storage and release time ratio, heat source temperature, and heat transfer coefficient on the ESE and heating rate are analyzed. These findings provide valuable guidance for the design of AES systems.