This thesis presents the feasibility of a residential scale, low cost, high temperature, graphite
based sensible thermal energy storage (TES) device and proposes a design for such a device. The
intended use for the proposed design is as a component of a larger concentrated solar power
(CSP) generation system. A scaled down model of the prototype was tested for performance and
durability. Measurements of thermal properties, discharge power, charging and discharging
efficiencies and resistance to degradation by oxidation and vibration were taken to quantify the
performance and durability. Oxidation rates were measured at 700 0C with SiC and Al2O3 based
protective coatings as well as with inert gas blanketing using argon, CO2 and evacuation. The
graphite was also subjected to vibration at 1000 rpm to evaluate any damage caused by contact
with a reciprocating heat engine. To quantify the performance, the relationship between
temperature and thermal conductivity was determined as well as the variation of specific heat
capacity with temperature. These were measured in the range of 50 0C to 400 0C. Solar irradiance
heat flux on the heat storage was simulated on the test samples to determine the temperature
variation throughout the charging period of one day. All tests were done on two grades of
graphite that vary in density, porosity and microstructure. Results obtained from testing the
device indicate an effective lifespan of 31 years before needing to be replaced and yields a
charging efficiency of 40.2%. Based on these results, a detailed design is presented. Finally,
based on the results, a more detailed design of the device is proposed.