Development of Novel Alloys Identified by High-Throughput Computational Methods for Use in Concentrated Solar Power Components

Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) has many advantages over photovoltaics such as higher efficiency, lower footprint for higher energy yields, and the ability to store thermal energy in times of limited sunlight. Many of the current and future CSP designs call for the use of heat transfer fluids such as molten salts including sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride or thermal oils which at high temperature are corrosive to most metals and metal alloys available today. Consequently, the development of new alloy materials for use in molten chloride storage tanks, pump impellers, and various other components subject to high temperature and highly-corrosive environments is a critical need required to advance CSP technology. In this project, HiFunda will use licensed technology developed at Brigham Young University which utilizes high-throughput calculations to identify novel superalloy compositions. The calculations identify specific compositions of ternary alloys that theoretically have higher stability than current superalloys. Alloy compositions will be down-selected based on cost, ease of experimental processing, and toxicity. Samples will be processed for characterization and put through a battery of tests to simulate operating conditions likely to be found in concentrated solar power facilities. Changes in microstructure, elemental composition, crystal structure, and other physical properties will be characterized and used to evaluate the alloy’s potential for use in various components. The development of alloys based on the results of high-throughput computing will allow for faster development of alloys suitable for future CSP plants. The identified alloys will also have application in turbines and aircraft materials, leading to more efficient processes with reduced failure rates. The technology will also reduce the capital cost and time requirements for the development of materials for many other applications such as nuclear, water splitting, catalysis, piezoelectrics, carbon capture and storage, and many more. Advancements in each one of these areas will help meet the DOE’s 2050 target of reducing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by 6 billion metric tons.