How Electrified Thermal Solutions Aims to Replace Natural Gas with High-Tech Bricks
The Challenge of Decarbonizing Industrial Heat
Transitioning away from fossil fuels is straightforward in some sectors—heat pumps for homes and electric vehicles for transportation are proven solutions. However, industries requiring intense heat, such as cement production and steelmaking, face significant hurdles in finding clean alternatives to natural gas and other fossil fuels.
A Revolutionary Approach: Electrified Bricks
Dan Stack, co-founder and CEO of Electrified Thermal Solutions (ETS), believes the answer may lie in an unexpected place: specially engineered bricks. For over a decade, Stack and his team have been refining a breakthrough technology that transforms ordinary fire bricks—already used in high-temperature industrial applications—into efficient thermal batteries.
How It Works
- Conductive Bricks: By modifying fire bricks, ETS has created versions that conduct electricity and convert it into extreme heat (up to 1,700°C).
- Stackable Design: The bricks generate heat simply by being stacked together, eliminating complex machinery.
- Longevity: Built on existing fire brick technology, these units can withstand decades of high-temperature use.
Commercial Potential and Industry Applications
ETS currently operates an elevator-sized prototype and is preparing for a commercial-scale demonstration in mid-2025. The system is designed for continuous operation, catering to industries that require 24⁄7 heat, such as:
- Cement production (calcination)
- Steam generation
- Industrial drying processes
Cost Competitiveness with Natural Gas
To compete with fossil fuels, ETS leverages off-peak electricity pricing:
- Charges bricks when renewable energy (wind/solar) is abundant and cheap.
- Capitalizes on grid incentives for flexible energy consumption.
- Already viable in regions with high natural gas prices and ample renewables.
Future Expansion and Funding
ETS aims to scale its technology to reach 1,800°C, unlocking applications in steelmaking and even natural gas power plant retrofits. The startup recently secured $19 million in pre-Series A funding, backed by prominent investors including:
- Clean Energy Ventures
- Holcim Maqer Ventures
- Mass Ventures
- Vale Ventures
The Path Forward
With its innovative approach, ETS is poised to disrupt industrial heating—a critical step toward decarbonizing heavy industries. As renewable energy adoption grows, solutions like thermal battery bricks could become a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing.
For more details, visit Electrified Thermal Solutions.
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