Utilizing Wadi Rum Silica Sands for Solar Thermal Energy and Heat Storage: A Sustainable Solution for Domestic Use

Research demonstrates that Wadi Rum's high-purity silica sand (SiO₂ > 99%) can serve as an effective and sustainable thermal energy storage (TES) material for domestic-scale concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. Testing over three days showed the system achieved a peak heat transfer rate of 18.7 kW, heating water by 27°C with outlet temperatures reaching 54.9°C while maintaining internal sand temperatures between 67°C and 69°C. The setup generated an average of 11.2 kWh of thermal energy daily with a 50.2% efficiency, reducing CO₂ emissions by approximately 2.07 kg per day. Economically, the system had a payback period of just 1.49 years, which decreased to 1.04 years with a 30% subsidy, highlighting its financial viability and potential to support Jordan's transition toward cleaner, self-reliant energy solutions.

Al Momani, D., Al Zyoud, A., Alasali, F., Abuashour, M. I., & Holderbaum, W. (2025). Utilizing Wadi Rum Silica Sands for Solar Thermal Energy and Heat Storage: A Sustainable Solution for Domestic Use. International Transactions on Electrical Energy Systems, 2025(1). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1155/etep/5560963