Hollow glass microspheres are lightweight, spherical particles that are widely used in a range of applications, including energy storage and insulation. Hollow glass microspheres are typically made from glass and have an average diameter of 10-300 microns, with a hollow interior that can be filled with air, gas, or other materials.
In energy applications, hollow glass microspheres are used as a filler material in composites and coatings to provide insulation and reduce the weight of the final product. They can also be used as a component in thermal energy storage systems, where they act as a phase change material, absorbing and releasing heat as the temperature changes.
In addition, hollow glass microspheres are being investigated as a potential material for hydrogen storage in fuel cells. The high surface area and low density of hollow glass microspheres make them attractive for this application, as they could potentially increase the amount of hydrogen that can be stored in a given volume.
Overall, hollow glass microspheres have the potential to significantly improve the performance of a range of energy-related products, including batteries, insulation materials, and fuel cells. Ongoing research is focused on developing new manufacturing methods and improving the properties of hollow glass microspheres to further expand their use in these and other applications.