Electricity Generation Efficiency Research Articles

Life Cycle Assessment of Methanol Production from Municipal Solid Waste: Environmental Comparison with Landfilling and Incineration

Inadequate waste management strategies play a significant role in exacerbating environmental challenges, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and other adverse ecological impacts. These issues are aggravated by the global rise in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, surpassing the rate of population growth. Simultaneously, there is an urgent demand for sustainable energy solutions to combat climate change and its wide-ranging impacts. In response, this study addresses a critical question: is methanol production from MSW, a waste-to-chemical (WtC) alternative based on circular economy principles, a more environmentally sustainable approach compared to traditional waste-to-energy (WtE) methods like landfilling with biogas recovery and incineration? To answer this, this study evaluates the environmental performance of MSW-to-methanol technologies using life cycle assessment (LCA), focusing on key indicators such as global warming potential, resource depletion, and impacts on human health and ecosystem quality. The results reveal that methanol production from MSW significantly reduces global warming potential (GWP) by 87% compared to landfilling and 56% compared to incineration. Additionally, the process demonstrates high energy efficiency in electricity generation, achieving 80% of the output of incineration. These findings position MSW-to-methanol as a promising alternative for advancing sustainable waste management and renewable energy transitions. While the technology is still in its developmental stages, this research highlights the need for further advancements and policy support to enhance feasibility and scalability. By providing a comparative environmental analysis, this study contributes to identifying innovative pathways for addressing pressing waste management and energy sustainability challenges.

Inspection the impact of mixing and external resistance on the Microbial Desalination Cell for electricity generation and desalination efficiency by using Macroalgae as a bio-cathode

Inspection the impact of mixing and external resistance on the Microbial Desalination Cell for electricity generation and desalination efficiency by using Macroalgae as a bio-cathode

Thermodynamic Models of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs): A Review

In the delicate context of climate change and global warming, new technologies are being investigated in order to reduce pollution. The SOFC stands out as one of the most promising fuel cell technologies for directly converting chemical energy into electrical energy, with the added benefit of potential integration into co-generation systems due to its high-temperature waste heat. They also offer multi-fuel flexibility, being able to operate on hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, and more. Additionally, they could contribute to carbon sequestration efforts and, when paired with a GT, achieve the highest efficiency in electricity generation for power plants. However, their development is still challenged by issues related to high-temperature materials, the design of cost-effective materials and manufacturing processes, and the optimization of efficient plant designs. To better understand SOFC operation, numerous mathematical models have been developed to solve transport equations coupled with electrochemical processes for three primary configurations: tubular, planar, and monolithic. These models capture reaction kinetics, including internal reforming chemistry. Recent advancements in modeling have significantly improved the design and performance of SOFCs, leading to a sharp rise in research contributions. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current state of SOFC modeling, highlighting key challenges that remain unresolved for further investigation by researchers.

Robust and ultra-thin nanocellulose/MXene composite film and its performance in efficient electricity-generation and sensing.

The conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy by triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) has attracted attention in recent years, particularly in the field of wearable sensor. In this work, TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNF) with carboxylate groups were compounded with MXene to serve as both the negative friction layer and the electrode in assembling a TENG with nylon. The synergistic effect between TOCNF and MXene was analyzed to disclose its influence on the performance of the as-prepared TENG. The MXene/TOCNF composite film, containing 50 wt% MXene, exhibited the best performance among all specimens, and the assembled TENG demonstrated excellent performance with an open-circuit voltage of 210 V, a short-circuit current of 0.84 μA, and a transferred charge of 8.6 nC. The excellent output performance might be attributed to the presence of carboxylate and F-containing groups in the composite film. This flexible TENG also functioned as a self-powered sensor, generating sensitive and stable signals in response to human motion and writing. This work verifies the simultaneous use of robust and flexible nanocellulose/MXene composite films as both the friction layer and electrode, which could spur the development of TENGs using sustainable and abundant cellulosic materials.

The role of hybrid hydrogen-battery storage in a grid-connected renewable energy microgrid considering time-of-use electricity tariffs

Hybrid hydrogen (H2)-battery BT integrated microgrid has gained significant interest lately as a key element for achieving a zero-emission future, thanks to its wide range of applications. The energy management strategy (EMS) of the H2- BT storage-based microgrid is critical for ensuring efficient and cost-effective electricity generation by controlling the operating point of the storage systems to achieve economic and operational benefits. This paper presents an optimal energy management and sizing strategy for a hybrid H2-BT storage-based grid-connected microgrid, considering two scenarios of Time-of-Use (ToU) electricity tariffs. The uniqueness of this study lies in its improvement of microgrid effectiveness through the optimization of component size and EMS. Among the two scenarios, the “Time of Use-Flat” scenario is more cost-effective and the best option. This conclusion is based on the results which indicate that LSC-SSA method achieved the lowest Annual System Cost (ASC) of $544,818 and the lowest Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of $0.273 in this scenario. These metrics are better compared to the “Flat-Time of Use” scenario, where the LSC-SSA method achieved an ASC of $552,773 and an LCOE of $0.277. Therefore, the “Time of Use-Flat” scenario provides greater cost-effectiveness for the hybrid H2-BT integrated microgrid.

Experimental Evaluation and Density Functional Theory Analysis of Activation Barriers in Dry Reforming Reaction Using Ni Nanoparticle-Supported CeO2 Novel Flower-like Catalyst

IntroductionIn the realm of renewable energy, biomass emerges as a crucial resource, capable of generating methane through anaerobic fermentation. This methane, in its role as a hydrogen carrier, presents an opportunity for fuel cells to leverage their high efficiency in electricity generation. Recent studies have illuminated the potential of biomass utilization, particularly in converting waste from shrimp farming into methane[1][2]. The prospect of utilizing revenue from shrimp farming to offset investments in fuel cells underscores the symbiotic relationship between these industries and drives interest in exploring new avenues for sustainable energy production.Efficient extraction of hydrogen from methane is an important factor in optimizing the fuel cell systems described above. Consequently, there has been a burgeoning focus on improving the efficiency of the dry reforming of methane (DRM) reaction. Within this context, CeO2 loaded with Ni nanoparticles has emerged as a promising catalyst, holding the potential to innovate methane utilization in fuel cells. This study embarks on a meticulous investigation into the dissociation reactions of methane and carbon dioxide, key steps in the DRM reaction, aiming to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and enhance reaction efficiency.MethodologyThe methodology employed in this study density functional theory (DFT) to calculate activation barriers for each dissociation reaction. Leveraging the plane-wave DFT method within the Vienna ab initio simulation package (VASP), the study explores diverse configurations of tetrahedral Ni nanoparticles on CeO2(111) surfaces. Through the nudged elastic band (NEB) method, activation barriers for methane and carbon dioxide dissociation were determined for each configuration. To validate these computational findings, experimental DRM reaction tests were conducted utilizing a Ni nanoparticle-supported flower-shaped CeO2 catalyst specifically synthesized for this study. Then, the activation barriers were calculated from the amount of hydrogen gas produced and methane consumed, offering a comprehensive understanding of reaction kinetics.Results and discussionResults from the study reveal intriguing insights into methane dissociation kinetics. The activation barrier for methane dissociation is found to range from 0.80 eV to 1.03 eV, depending on the loading site of Ni nanoparticles, closely mirroring the value derived from experimental methane consumption rates (=0.67 eV). On the other hand, the dissociation of carbon dioxide exhibits higher activation barriers compared to methane dissociation, suggesting its role as a rate-limiting step in the DRM reaction. Particularly noteworthy is the study's suggestion that augmenting the positive charge of Ni nanoparticles may enhance methane dissociation, offering a promising avenue for catalyst optimization in DRM processes.[1] Y. Shiratori et al., Biogas Power Generation with SOFC to Demonstrate Energy Circulation Suitable for Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Fuel Cells 19, 346-353 (2019).[2] P. H. Tu et al., Paper‐structured catalyst with a dispersion of ceria‐based oxide support for improving the performance of an SOFC fed with simulated biogas. Fuel Cells, 1-11 (2024).

(Invited) Interface Engineering to Operate Reversible Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells below 500 °C

The low-temperature (< 500 °C) operation of reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs) is desirable in achieving efficient and sustainable electricity generation, as well as green hydrogen production. However, significant interfacial resistance, which contributes to both ohmic and polarization resistance, remains a hurdle in lowering the operating temperature. In this study, we introduce PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+δ (PBSCF) and BaZr0.4Ce0.4Y0.1Yb0.1O3-δ(BZCYYb) mono-grain composite interlayers, which significantly extend the electrode/electrolyte interface and increase the concentration of vertically aligned oxygen vacancies along the heterointerface. This unique design achieves the lowest ohmic and polarization resistances among previously reported values in solid electrolyte-based electrochemical cells. As a result, the PCEC can operate at extremely low temperature of 350 ℃ with an exceptional peak power density of 0.50 W/cm2 in fuel cell mode and current density of 0.25 A/cm2 at 1.3 V in electrolysis cell mode. Furthermore, it demonstrates high energy conversion efficiency and excellent stability under static and dynamic operating conditions.

Incremental Efficiency of Electricity Generation Based on Thermal Consumption at CHPPs and its Importance in Reducing Carbon Emissions

The aim of the study is to develop a methodological approach to assessing the incremental efficiency of electricity generation at CHPPs (specific heat consumption for changing electric power of turbine) in operating modes, taking into account both energy and environmental indicators. To achieve this goal, the following tasks were solved: the methodology, based on mathematical models of cogeneration steam turbines, both integral and differential indicators of heat rate per unit of electricity generation increment, was justified; a comprehensive generalization of the calculation data on the tur-bine T-50-12.8 type was performed; a quantitative assessment of the integral electricity generation and greenhouse gas emissions parameters was made at various loads and its comparison with the corre-sponding indicators in condensation mode. The most significant results are the following: generalized dependences of the integral specific heat consumption per unit of increase in electricity generation and carbon footprint were calculated for a wide range of changes in operating conditions; boundary condi-tions were established under which obtaining these parameters by opening the sliding grid of low-pressure section turns out to be energetically and ecologically feasible; it was determined that when increasing the capacity without bypassing the delivery water, the carbon footprint increment with an increase in the capacity of cogeneration turbines by opening the sliding grid will be less than for con-densing turbines. The significance of the results obtained lies in their applicability for solving prob-lems of ensuring maximum efficiency during involving cogeneration turbines in regulating electric load schedules in different boundary conditions.

Laccase-loaded CaCO3 sustained-release microspheres modified SBES anode for enhance performance in the remediation of soil contaminated with phenanthrene and pyrene

This study aimed to enhance the efficiency of SBES in remediating polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-contaminated soils by modifying the anode with laccase. The experiment involved four SBES anodes: a carbon nanotube-modified anode (CNT), a free laccase-modified anode (Lac), a gelatin-encapsulated laccase-modified anode (Lac-Gel), and a CaCO3 sustained-release microsphere-loaded laccase-modified (CaCO3-SMs@Laccase) anode (Lac-SMs). The CaCO3-SMs@Laccase notably extended the active period of laccase, with laccase activity in the Lac-SMs measured at 1.646 U/g after 16 days, which was significantly higher than the 0.813 U/g observed in the Lac-Gel group and the 0.206 U/g in the Lac group. The superior electricity generation and degradation efficiency observed in the Lac-SMs group were due to the sustained enzymatic activity provided by the CaCO3-SMs@Laccase. The prevention of anode acidification through CaCO3 decomposition, and promote the forward progress of electrochemical reactions. The phenanthrene (Phe) and pyrene (Pyr) removal efficiency in the soil of the Lac-SMs reached 90.78 % and 84.72 %, surpassing those of the Lac-Gel (80.36 % and 79.14 %), Lac (79.38 % and 69.31 %), and CNT (63.22 % and 56.98 %). The degradation pathway from Pyr to Phe was possible started with hydroxylation. In addition, the laccase also transformed the predominant microbial communities and metabolism pathways.

Ethylamine as a regenerative fuel for emission-free direct liquid fuel cell

Discovery of energy-dense and emission-free fuels for low-temperature fuel cell technology remains an important research theme to achieve efficient, clean electricity generation. In this study, we report the study of ethylamine as a regenerative fuel for emission-free fuel cells. The electrocatalytic ethylamine dehydrogenation reaction on commercial Pt catalyst under alkaline conditions exhibits fast reaction kinetics and produces acetonitrile as sole product, which can be readily hydrogenated back to ethylamine for reuse and thereby avoid CO2 emissions. By assembling and testing a direct ethylamine fuel cell, we demonstrate the capability of this regenerative fuel for clean electricity generation. The fuel cell performances are evaluated with different ethylamine fuel concentrations and operation temperatures and compared with other direct liquid fuel cells, highlighting promising prospects for utilizing ethylamine as a regenerative fuel in fuel cells for efficient and clean electricity generation.

Synergistic Effect Between 0D CQDs and 2D MXene to Enhance the Photothermal Conversion of Hydrogel Evaporators for Efficient Solar Water Evaporation, Photothermal Sensing and Electricity Generation.

Solar-powered interfacial water evaporation is a promising technique for alleviating freshwater stress. However, the evaporation performance of solar evaporators is still constrained by low photothermal conversion efficiency and high water evaporation enthalpy. Herein, 0D carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are combined with 2D MXene to serve as a hybrid photothermal material to enhance the light absorption and photothermal conversion ability, meanwhile sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogels are used as a substrate material for water transport to reduce the enthalpy of water evaporation. The synergistic effect in 0D CQDs/2D MXene hybrid photothermal materials accelerate the carrier transfer, inducing efficient localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect. This results in the enhanced photothermal conversion efficiency. The integrated hydrogel evaporators demonstrate a high evaporation rate (1.93 and 2.86kgm-2h-1 under 1 and 2 sunlights, respectively) and low evaporation enthalpy (1485Jg-1). In addition, the hydrogel evaporators are applied for photothermal sensing and temperature difference power generation (TEG). The TEG device presents an efficient output power density (230.7mWm-2) under 1 sunlight. This work provides a feasible approach for regulating and controlling the evaporation performances of hydrogel evaporators, and gives a proof-of-concept for the design of multipurpose solar evaporation systems.

Prediction of electricity load generated by Combined Cycle Power Plants using integration of machine learning methods and HGS algorithm

Combined Cycle Power Plants offer an efficient and environmentally friendly means of electricity generation, albeit with challenges in accurately predicting power output. This study proposes a hybrid model to forecast the total electrical power load in these plants by leveraging key input variables. Five machine learning algorithms, including Categorical Boosting, Histogram-based Gradient Boosting Regression, Extreme Gradient Boosting Regression, Light Gradient Boosting Machine, and Support Vector Regression, were employed, with their predictions optimized using the Hunger Games Search algorithm. This integration resulted in five hybrid models, with the combination of Hunger Games Search and Categorical Boosting emerging as the most effective, demonstrating superior performance in test datasets with an R2 value of 0.9735 and a mean absolute error of 2.05525. The Hunger Games Search algorithm enhanced prediction accuracy by fine-tuning core algorithm parameters. Comprehensive case analysis and metric evaluation underscored the efficacy of the proposed model for hourly power load forecasting in Combined Cycle Power Plants, although the hybrid model combining Hunger Games Search and Support Vector Regression exhibited comparatively poorer performance in test datasets with R2 of 0.9551 and a mean absolute error of 2.71211. The recommendation to integrate Categorical Boosting with the Hunger Games Search algorithm stands as a robust strategy for enhancing power load prediction in these power plants, promising greater operational efficiency and reliability in electricity generation.

Assessment of a solar-powered trigeneration plant integrated with thermal energy storage using phase change materials

This study presents a comprehensive thermodynamic assessment of a trigeneration plant producing electricity, fresh water through multi-effect desalination (MED), and cooling through an absorption refrigeration cycle. The MED and absorption refrigeration systems utilize the rejected heat from the power cycle, driven by concentrated solar power (CSP). Situated in Qatar, the present system leverages the abundant solar irradiance to optimize the efficiency of electricity generation, water desalination, and cooling. The design features parabolic trough collectors with synthetic oil as the heat transfer fluid, direct thermal storage, and a Rankine steam turbine cycle with three turbine stages. The system also incorporates phase change materials (PCMs) based thermal energy storage (TES) to improve the system performance and offset the mismatch between demand and supply. The present system evaluation is based on energy and exergy analyses, while the Aspen Plus is used to simulate the power production and desalination operations, providing detailed insights into its efficiency and potential for large-scale implementation. The proposed system operates with an energy efficiency of 56.72 % and an exergy efficiency of 31.24 %, respectively.

Penstock pipe’s hydraulic design for the mini hydropower plant at Besai Kemu, Bukit Kemuning, Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract Hydropower, as a renewable energy source, holds significant potential for electricity generation. However, optimizing the design of hydropower penstocks to ensure efficient energy conversion remains a complex challenge. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the optimal hydraulic calculations for designing a penstock system in Lampung, Indonesia, thereby contributing to the understanding of micro hydropower engineering. The research adopts an explanatory methodology, utilizing a case study approach in Bukit Kemuning, Lampung, Indonesia. Design data collection at the research site and relevant hydraulic design indicators from literature serve as the foundation for conducting comprehensive hydraulic calculations. The study focuses on key parameters such as penstock dimensions, power generation capacity, and energy loss assessments to inform the design process. The analysis reveals a flow rate of 11 m3/s and a flow velocity of 2.43 m/s, resulting in a targeted power output of 3234 Kilowatts. The findings underscore the critical role of key elevation parameters and design considerations in optimizing the penstock system for efficient electricity generation. Detailed calculations elucidate the determination of penstock dimensions, the evaluation of energy losses, and the consideration of surge pressure velocity to ensure system resilience. To withstand high water pressure, the research advocates for penstock pipes with specific dimensions: two pipes, each 116 m in length, with a diameter of 2.4 m and a cross-sectional area of 4.52 m2 requiring a thickness of 10 mm. The study identifies pressure reduction factors, including head loss due to penstock friction (0.169 m), friction losses (0.1635 m), and water hammer reaching 2 bar with an acceleration of 88.03 m/s2. The net head after turbulent and friction losses is determined to be 30 m. This study highlights the importance of tailored design strategies in effectively harnessing hydropower resources, offering valuable insights for micro hydropower projects globally.

Experimental investigation of the cooling effect of topology-optimized structure on photovoltaic wall

Nowadays, photovoltaic walls have been widely used, which will generate heat behind the PV panel and cause overheating, making the lower efficiency of the PV panel and higher temperature of the exterior wall. Topology optimization structures have been explored in many fields for heat dissipation, but few are applied in heat dissipation of the PV wall systems. The purpose of this paper is to experimentally investigate the effect of topological optimized structure of the copper sheet on electricity generation efficiency of the PV panel and cooling effect of the exterior wall. The topology optimization method is used to numerically find the optimal geometric configuration of high thermal conductivity material of copper sheet on the back of the photovoltaic panel. And the topology-optimized copper sheet is fabricated by 3D printing and experimented with four different cases. The experimental results show that under natural convection, compared with the reference photovoltaic wall, the largest reduction of temperature of the photovoltaic panel (ΔTpv) and the largest output power increment rate (ΔE/E) of the photovoltaic wall with topology-optimized copper in the 5 test days are 2.7℃and 1.30 % respectively, and the largest reduction of temperature of the exterior wall (ΔTw) is 1.6℃. Under forced convection, the temperature reduction (ΔTpv) and the increment of output power (ΔE) of the photovoltaic panel and the temperature reduction of the exterior wall (ΔTw) increase significantly under wind speed of 1 m/s compared with natural convection. But when the wind speed is increased from 1.5 m/s to 2 m/s, the increment is less obvious. Therefore, the optimal wind speed in the air gap of the photovoltaic wall with topology-optimized copper is 1 ∼ 1.5 m/s. At last, based on the results of our previous study, the optimal-constructed photovoltaic wall in hot summer and cold winter area is discussed. The results of this research can provide some technical guidance for engineering application of the photovoltaic panel integrated with walls in similar climate regions.

Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of Double Perovskites as Cathodes in Reversible Ceramic Electrochemical Cells through Nb Doping

Efficient and cost-effective generation of electricity and hydrogen holds promise through reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (R-PCECs). However, the successful commercialization of R-PCECs depends on the advancement of air electrodes that are both highly active and durable. Here, we made an air electrode material with two phases of double perovskite and single perovskite by doping Nb into B-site of the traditional PrBaCo2O6 double perovskite. The coexistence of the mixed double perovskite and single perovskite phases demonstrates superior electrochemical performance and durability compared to pristine double perovskite and single perovskite materials when employed as cathode materials. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), synchrotron radiation X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and neutron diffraction analysis reveal that this enhancement is primarily attributed to the introduction of high-valence Nb5+, resulting in an increased number of oxygen vacancies and structural stability. The findings presented in this study contribute valuable insights into the design and development of advanced cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells and electrolyzers, with the potential for applications in sustainable energy conversion and storage technologies.

CFD modelling and analysis of a radial ORC turbine with backswept rotor blades

Abstract Global electricity demand has steadily risen over the past five decades due to increased industrialization and improved accessibility worldwide. Addressing this escalating demand requires expanding electricity production, achievable through adopting renewable energy sources or enhancing production efficiency. Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) power systems offer a promising solution for efficient electricity generation by utilizing organic fluids with lower critical parameters. Unlike conventional steam power plants, ORC systems operate at lower temperatures, making them adaptable to various applications. The efficiency of ORC power systems heavily relies on the design and performance of their turbines. This study focuses on modelling and analyzing the ORC turbine using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques, specifically employing a radial-inflow design with backswept rotor blades. Geometric parameters were derived from a simplified zero-dimensional (0-D) turbine model developed in MATLAB. CFD modelling was conducted using ANSYS software, integrating the BladeGen module for turbine geometry generation and the TurboGrid toolbox for mesh creation. Comparative analysis with the 0-D design method validated the accuracy of the CFD turbine modelling and the achievement of desired operational parameters. This research underscores the potential of CFD techniques in optimizing ORC turbine design thus allowing to achieve efficient electricity generation, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies.

Role of primary drivers leading to emission reduction of major air pollutants and CO2 from global power plants

Electricity production is a significant source of air pollution. Various factors, including electricity demand, generation efficiency, energy mix, and end-of-pipe control measures, are responsible for the emission changes during electricity generation. Although electricity production more than doubled from 1990 to 2017, air pollutant emissions showed a moderate increase or decrease, which was attributed to mitigating drivers such as increased clean energy use, improved power generation efficiency, and widespread installation of end-of-pipe control facilities. The absence of these mitigating drivers would have increased CO2, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), black carbon, SO2, and NOx emissions in 2017 by 165 %, 403 %, 1070 %, 614 %, and 274 % than their actual levels, respectively. The improved electricity generation efficiency reduced potential CO2, PM2.5, SO2, and NOx emissions by 30 %, 295 %, 119 %, and 52 % compared to actual emissions, respectively. Meanwhile, the installation of end-of-pipe facilities reduced potential SO2 and PM2.5 emissions by 34.7 and 4.0 Tg, respectively. Considerable differences in emissions among countries were found to be attributable to their differences in electricity demand and the implementation of local mitigating polices.

Decentralized Retrofit Model Predictive Control of Inverter-Interfaced Small-Scale Microgrids

In recent years, small-scale microgrids have become popular in the power system industry because they provide an efficient electrical power generation platform to guarantee autonomy and independence from the power grid, which is a critical feature in cases of catastrophic events or remote areas. On the other hand, due to the short distances among multiple distribution generation systems in small-scale microgrids, the interconnection couplings among them increase significantly, which jeopardizes the stability of the entire system. Therefore, this work proposes a novel method to design decentralized robust controllers based on a retrofit model predictive control scheme to tackle the issue of instability due to the short distances among generation systems. In this approach, the retrofit model predictive controller receives the measured feedback signal from the interconnection current and generates a control command signal to limit the interconnection current to prevent instability. To design a retrofit controller, only the model of a robust closed-loop system, as well as an interconnection line, is required. The model predictive control signal is added in parallel to the control signal from the existing robust voltage source inverter controller. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed technique as compared with the virtual impedance and retrofit linear quadratic regulator techniques (benchmarks) with respect to peak-load demand, plug-and-play capability, nonlinear load, and inverter efficiency.

PVA/cellulose hydrogel with asymmetric distribution of MoS2 for highly efficient solar-driven interfacial evaporation and electricity generation

Population growth and economic globalization have exacerbated freshwater shortages and energy crises, and solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SDIE) offers a promising solution due to its environmental friendliness, accessibility, and sustainability. However, the highly efficient cogeneration of freshwater and electricity using the SDIE process is a challenge. Herein, a PVA/cellulose hydrogel with asymmetric distribution of MoS2 is proposed as a highly efficient SDIE system to overcome the bottleneck in the cogeneration of freshwater and electricity. By applying material genome engineering and microstructure regulation to improve light harvesting, energy efficiency, evaporation performance, and vapor escape. The evaporation rate of the PVA/cellulose evaporator could reach 3.23 kg m−2 h−1 when desalinating 3.5 wt% seawater under 1 sun and remained basically stable during the long-term continuous evaporation. In addition to desalination, the prepared evaporator also has a potential application in the cyclic utilization of the industrial and domestic wastewater. The synergistic effect of the electron double layer effect and the seawater battery principle produces a high output voltage of 0.714 V. Meanwhile, the optimized solar evaporator demonstrates good mechanical properties, salt resistance, environmental adaptability, and carbon emission economy. This work provides new insights into efficient seawater desalination and power generation, and inspires further research on multifunctional solar-driven interfacial evaporation systems to effectively address water scarcity and energy crises.