The Influence of Quantum Degeneracy on the Performance of a Fermi Brayton Engine

Abstract

The influence of quantum degeneracy on the performance of a Brayton engine using an ideal Fermi gas as the working substance is investigated, based on the theory of statistical mechanics. The general expressions of the efficiency and work output of the engine cycle are derived. The maximum work output and the corresponding efficiency are calculated. The bound of the pressure ratio of the two constant-pressure processes that the Brayton engine cycle can be operated normally is determined. Some important characteristic curves of the cycle, such as the work output versus pressure ratio curves, the efficiency versus pressure ratio curves, the maximum work output ratio versus temperature of the heat reservoirs curves, and so on, are presented. Three special cases are discussed in detail. The results obtained may reveal the general performance characteristics of a Brayton engine working with an ideal Fermi gas.