Energy Conversion Efficiency Research Articles

Coconut-sourced MCT oil: its potential health benefits beyond traditional coconut oil

AbstractPlant dietary lipids remain one of the most intriguing and complex classes of biological molecules. Among them, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have garnered recognition for their unique physico-chemical properties and potential health benefits. Despite their classification as saturated fats, they stand apart from other saturated fatty acids due to their distinctive characteristics, positioning them as a valuable component in nutrition. While traditional dietary fats primarily contain long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), MCTs consist of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), naturally found in coconut and palm oils. The structural dissimilarity grants MCTs advantageous attributes, encompassing rapid digestion and absorption, providing a swift source of energy. Importantly, MCT oil derived from coconuts surpasses traditional coconut oil in efficiency and speed of energy conversion due to its higher concentration of readily metabolizable MCTs, making it a superior choice in human nutrition. This comprehensive study delves deeply into the potential of coconut-derived MCT oil, illuminating its chemical constituents, production from coconut oil, distinctive physical and chemical properties, and metabolic characteristics. Additionally, it highlights a range of potential biological activities of the oil, including its efficacy in managing gastrointestinal disorders and promising roles in anticancer, neuroprotective, and antimicrobial effects. The report also discusses the extensive applications of MCT oil across diverse industrial and technological sectors, as well as its utilization in structured lipids, oleogels, and as a carrier for capsaicin. Addressing safety concerns and providing dosage guidelines, this paper emphasizes MCT oil as an alternative to coconut oil in various applications, offering a holistic perspective on its benefits.

Comparative Analysis of Reverse Truncated Pyramid and Other Nonimaging Concentrators as the Receiver in Laser Wireless Power Transmission System

The global energy landscape faces significant challenges in meeting the demands of modern industries for stable and efficient energy supply. Laser wireless power transmission (LWPT) systems, which utilize the photovoltaic effect to convert laser beam energy, hold great promise due to their long-range transmission capability and high precision. However, the current energy conversion efficiency of these systems requires further improvement to achieve optimal performance. To enhance concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) system performance, the study examines different nonimaging concentrators such as reverse truncated pyramid, cross-compound parabolic concentrator, and square elliptical hyperboloid. Numerical simulations using the finite element method analyze the multifield coupling mechanism of PV modules with various concentration lenses. Three CPV systems with RTP concentrators of different heights were studied to understand the impact of geometry on CPV performance. And the main impact of rotation angle was discussed. The research findings provide essential insights into CPV system performance and the influence of different concentration lenses, contributing valuable knowledge towards improving LWPT technologies.

Cr3+‐doped far‐red phosphors with zero thermal quenching and excellent spectral matching for plant lighting application

AbstractFar‐red‐emitting (700−740 nm) phosphors are essential for the fabrication of plant lighting phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs). However, the development of highly efficient, thermally stable, and spectrally matched far‐red phosphors still remains a challenge. Herein, far‐red GdAlO3:Cr3+ (GAO:Cr3+) phosphors were synthesized via solid‐state reaction and investigated for plant lighting pc‐LED applications. A low‐temperature flux‐assisted synthesis strategy was adopted to improve the crystalline quality, suppress the defect formation, and maintain the valence state of Cr3+ in the phosphors, finally leading to significant luminescent enhancement (∼10 times). The GAO:Cr3+ phosphors show the 2E sharp‐line emissions around 730 nm, which is highly matched with the far‐red absorption band of plants. The optimized GAO:0.01Cr3+ phosphor exhibits a high internal quantum efficiency of 98.3% and zero thermal quenching even up to 250°C. The fabricated pc‐LED can generate an overall output power of 78.1 mW at 100 mA drive current, with a high energy conversion efficiency of 25.3%. The findings demonstrate the great potential of GAO:Cr3+ as far‐red‐emitting phosphor materials for plant growth pc‐LED applications.

Differential Impact of Surface Conduction and Electroosmotic Flow on Ion Transport Enhancement by Microscale Auxiliary Structures.

Our research investigates the impact of auxiliary structures on ion transport in electrochemical systems such as batteries and microscale desalination units, whose importance for sustainable development has increased dramatically in recent decades. The electrochemical systems typically feature ion-selective surfaces, such as electrodes and ion exchange membranes, where ion depletion can cause performance issues including metal dendrite formation and flow instability. Recent research has shown that auxiliary structures in these electrochemical systems can enhance ion transfer near ion-selective surfaces, thereby resolving the instability problem and improving the energy conversion efficiency of the system. Our study leverages recent advancements in nanoscale electrokinetics to model these auxiliary structures as pillar arrays near an ion exchange membrane in a microchannel. We examine how these structures enhance ion transports relative to the characteristic length scale of microchannel depth and pillars' proximity to the ion-selective surface. Results show that the effect of the pillars varies significantly with their placement. Specifically, in deeper microchannels, where electrokinetic convection is stronger, the closer the auxiliary structure is to the ion-selective membrane, the better the ion transfer. However, in the thinner microchannel, the proximity of the auxiliary structure to the ion selective membrane has a less significant correlation with the ion transfer. Therefore, this finding highlights the importance of spatial arrangement of the auxiliary structures in improving the performance of electrochemical devices. Conclusively, this study can help to better understand energy conversion systems such as fuel cells, salinity gradient power generation systems, and electrochemical desalination systems, where auxiliary structures can be used in the vicinity of ion-selective surfaces. Especially, our fundamental electrokinetic study provides an effective means for designing the efficient electrochemical platforms utilizing micro/nanofluidics.

Direct methanol oxygen-ion conducting solid oxide fuel cell with an integrated in-situ cracking reactor

Methanol, as an indirect hydrogen storage medium rich in hydrogen, is considered an ideal fuel for fuel cells. Oxygen-ion conducting solid oxide fuel cells (O-SOFCs) powered by methanol are renowned for their high energy conversion efficiency and minimal environmental impact, offering broad application prospects. However, challenges to their stable power generation arise from the rate of hydrogen production through methanol decomposition at the anode and carbon deposition on nickel-based anodes. To address these issues, this study explores the optimal operating temperature and concentration of methanol as an O-SOFCs fuel, while also developing a novel cell design. In this design, an in-situ cracking reactor for internal conversion of methanol is constructed by loading Ru-GDC high-efficiency nanofiber catalysts on dendritic anode microchannels, significantly enhancing the cell's power generation performance. Experimental results demonstrate that at 800°C and a 30% methanol concentration, the system increases the maximum power density (MPD) from 0.622 W cm−2 to 0.893 W cm−2, exhibiting a 43.57% increase in power density and a 13.03% improvement in methanol utilization. Additionally, the system effectively mitigates carbon deposition and nickel anode deactivation, thereby enhancing the cell's operational stability.

Electrical energy efficiency of dye sensitized solar cells by polymer electrolyte

This research aims to prepare by mixtures method with dope carbon black as a working electrode and the apply it to the dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The thin film of titanium dioxide nanocrystalline semi - conductor with dope carbon black, the cells were coated on to transparent conducting oxide glass sheet by means of the doctor blade technique as a working electrode. But the polymer electrolyte were prepare by adding potassium iodide and iodine salts with a ratio of KI:I2 was 10:1, into a polymer electrolyte composed of poly-ethylene glycol, ethylene carbonate and poly(styrene–co–acrylonitrile). The polymer electrolyte mixtures became homogeneous and stirring at a temperature of 80 °C.  Found that efficiency for the DSSCs by polymer electrolyte based on yielded an overall light to electrical energy conversion efficiency ( ) of the DSSCs was 5.5095%, An open-circuit voltage  of 0.58 V, voltage at the point of maximum power output  of 0.42 V, short-circuit current density  of 11.11 mA.cm–2, current density at the point of maximum power output  of 10.50 mA.cm–2 fill factor  of 0.684 under an irradiation of 80 mW.cm–2. And the long-term stability test of the DSSCs with a polymer electrolyte is evidently superior to the DSSCs with liquid electrolyte based on the observation period lasting for 90 days. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT HIGHLIGHTS prepare by mixtures method with dope carbon black as a working electrode The efficiency for the DSSCs by polymer electrolyte based on yielded an overall light to electrical energy conversion

Shaping the Future of the Neurotransmitter Sensor: Tailored CdS Nanostructures for State-of-the-Art Self-Powered Photoelectrochemical Devices.

Semiconductor-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) test protocols offer a viable solution for developing efficient individual health monitoring by converting light and chemical energy into electrical signals. However, slow reaction kinetics and electron-hole complexation at the interface limit their practical application. Here, we reported a triple-engineered CdS nanohierarchical structures (CdS NHs) modification scheme including morphology, defective states, and heterogeneous structure to achieve precise monitoring of the neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) in plasma and noninvasive body fluids. By precisely manipulating the Cd-S precursor, we achieved precise control over ternary CdS NHs and obtained well-defined layered self-assembled CdS NHs through a surface carbon treatment. The integration of defect states and the thin carbon layer effectively established carrier directional transfer pathways, thereby enhancing interface reaction sites and improving the conversion efficiency. The CdS NHs microelectrode fabricated demonstrated a remarkable negative response toward DA, thereby enabling the development of a miniature self-powered PEC device for precise quantification in human saliva. Additionally, the utilization of density functional theory calculations elucidated the structural characteristics of DA and the defect state of CdS, thus establishing crucial theoretical groundwork for optimizing the polymerization process of DA. The present study offers a potential engineering approach for developing high energy conversion efficiency PEC semiconductors as well as proposing a novel concept for designing sensitive testing strategies.

Interplay of intermolecular and intramolecular vibrations mediates ultrafast singlet fission

Singlet fission (SF) is an exciton multiplication process that splits a singlet exciton in organic semiconductors into two triplet excitons and thus, can overcome the Shockley–Queisser limit to improve the solar energy conversion efficiency in photovoltaics. In this paper, we construct a unified model for the ultrafast primary step of the SF process. To achieve this, we investigate the dynamics of vibrational modes and their interactions with the relevant electronic excited states in prototypical SF materials, pentacene (exothermic SF) and tetracene (endothermic SF) single crystals. Additionally, the functional role of the charge transfer (CT) state is also examined. Using the refined parameters obtained from the reported experimental results, we deduce that the intermolecular vibrations mediate the SF in pentacene with the assistance from strong vibronic couplings to intramolecular modes, which drives the SF process to occur within 100 fs. In this timescale, the CT state has a limiting role towards the SF process in pentacene. However, the CT state plays an important role in a relatively slower SF process in tetracene. Our results disentangle the role of underlying vibrational coherences and clarify the importance of the CT state in tetracene crystal. Hence, with our unified model, we can study the coherent dynamics of the SF process, which can principally be extended to other SF materials as well.

Design and Fabrication of an Acetylene Fuel Vehicle

Abstract: The transition towards sustainable transportation necessitates exploring alternative fuels with reduced environmental impacts. Acetylene has emerged as a promising candidate due to its clean combustion characteristics and high energy density. This abstract outline the design and fabrication process of an acetylene fuel vehicle, focusing on its feasibility and performance. The design phase involves meticulous material selection to ensure compatibility with acetylene's properties while prioritizing safety measures. Key components such as the fuel storage system, combustion chamber, and propulsion system are engineered to maximize energy conversion efficiency and minimize emissions. Safety protocols for acetylene handling and storage are integrated into the design to mitigate risks associated with its high reactivity. Fabrication incorporates advanced manufacturing techniques like additive manufacturing and precision machining to create a robust vehicle prototype. The integration of selected components is optimized to enhance structural integrity and overall performance. Rigorous testing procedures are conducted to validate the vehicle's functionality, including performance metrics, emissions analysis, and safety evaluations. The outcomes of this study provide valuable insights into the feasibility of acetylene as a sustainable transportation fuel. The design and fabrication processes contribute to ongoing research efforts aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of the transportation sector. The results also offer a pathway for future developments in alternative fuel technologies, driving towards a more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient transportation ecosystem.

Constructing Metal(II)‐Sulfate Site Catalysts toward Low Overpotential Carbon Dioxide Electroreduction to Fuel Chemicals

Precise regulation of the active site structure is an important means to enhance the activity and selectivity of catalysts in CO2 electroreduction. Here, we creatively introduce anionic groups, which can not only stabilize metal sites with strong coordination ability but also have rich interactions with protons at active sites to modify the electronic structure and proton transfer process of catalysts. This strategy helps to convert CO2 into fuel chemicals at low overpotentials. As a typical example, a composite catalyst, CuO/Cu‐NSO4/CN, with highly dispersed Cu(II)‐SO4 sites has been reported, in which CO2 electroreduction to formate occurs at a low overpotential with a high Faradaic efficiency (−0.5 V vs. RHE, FEHCOO−=87.4%). Pure HCOOH is produced with an energy conversion efficiency of 44.3% at a cell voltage of 2.8 V. Theoretical modeling demonstrates that sulfate promotes CO2 transformation into a carboxyl intermediate followed by HCOOH generation, whose mechanism is significantly different from that of the traditional process via a formate intermediate for HCOOH production.

Constructing Metal(II)-Sulfate Site Catalysts toward Low Overpotential Carbon Dioxide Electroreduction to Fuel Chemicals.

Precise regulation of the active site structure is an important means to enhance the activity and selectivity of catalysts in CO2 electroreduction. Here, we creatively introduce anionic groups, which can not only stabilize metal sites with strong coordination ability but also have rich interactions with protons at active sites to modify the electronic structure and proton transfer process of catalysts. This strategy helps to convert CO2 into fuel chemicals at low overpotentials. As a typical example, a composite catalyst, CuO/Cu-NSO4/CN, with highly dispersed Cu(II)-SO4 sites has been reported, in which CO2 electroreduction to formate occurs at a low overpotential with a high Faradaic efficiency (-0.5 V vs. RHE, FEHCOO-=87.4%). Pure HCOOH is produced with an energy conversion efficiency of 44.3% at a cell voltage of 2.8 V. Theoretical modeling demonstrates that sulfate promotes CO2 transformation into a carboxyl intermediate followed by HCOOH generation, whose mechanism is significantly different from that of the traditional process via a formate intermediate for HCOOH production.

Mathematical Model of Parabolic Trough Collector with Fresnel Lens as Second Collector

Parabolic trough collectors (PTCs) have came out as a promising technology for harnessing solar energy for various applications including electricity generation and thermal heating. However, improving their thermal performance remains a critical challenge to maximize energy conversion efficiency. This paper presents a mathematical model for enhancing the thermal performance of PTCs by using a curved Fresnel lens as a second collector over the top side of the receiver. This enhancing has taken advantage of the space above the top side of receiver and increased the thermal efficiency of PTCs. The unsteady heat transfer equations with one dimension are used to simulate the effect of Fresnel lens on the receiver components beside the heat transfer fluid and compared with that without Fresnel lens. The results of this model are based on parameters of LS-2 model and environment of installation place whereas the water was chosen as heat transfer fluid with physical properties depending on Temperature.  Al-Baydha city in Yemen is chosen as an installation place taking in consideration the variation of environment temperature in each month of the year and the inlet temperature of water and receiver‘s  components are taken as the minimum temperature of the air. Keywords: Mathematical Model; Parabolic Trough Collector;  Fresnel Lens ; Solar        

Wave energy resource classification system for the China East Adjacent Seas based on multivariate clustering

This study based on the 25-year wave hindcast database of the western Pacific and used three unsupervised learning clustering algorithms to classify the wave energy resources in the China East Adjacent Seas. Five wave energy characteristic parameters are comprehensively considered in the calculation process of the clustering algorithm. According to the analysis of the classification results, it can be seen that the Class Ⅳ is the most suitable for wave energy development in the China East Adjacent Seas, followed by the Class Ⅲ and Class Ⅴ. The Class Ⅵ is too far away from the coast to be used as the intended area for wave energy development. The Class Ⅰ is mostly located in inland seas and harbors, which are not suitable for wave energy development. By analyzing the annual average captured power, it can be seen that the optimal capture interval of the existing wave energy converters with mature technology is too large compared with the wave conditions in the China East Adjacent Seas. We should vigorously develop wave energy converters that are more suitable for the wave conditions of Class Ⅲ, Class Ⅳ and Class Ⅴ, and improve the capture efficiency of the wave energy converters.

Mass‐Transfer Mechanism of Nafion Proton‐Exchange Membranes in Fuel Cells—A Review

The proton‐exchange membrane is a crucial component of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), and its mass transfer plays a vital role in the performance and energy conversion efficiency of fuel cells. In this article, the fundamental structure and working principle of PEMFCs, as well as the microstructure of the membrane, are introduced. The mass‐transfer mechanism of the membranes is systematically sorted out from the model of mass transfer and the corresponding simulation method, and the mass transfer is quantitatively calculated from the macroscopic perspective. Additionally, methods to improve the mass‐transfer efficiency from both internal and external aspects are discussed. In conclusion, in this article, mass transfer in PEMFCs is comprehensively discussed and a valuable reference is offered for future research and development in this field.

Performance Evaluation and Cycle Time Optimization of Vapor-Compression/Adsorption Cascade Refrigeration Systems

The reliance on more sustainable refrigeration systems with less electricity consumption attracts a lot of attention as the demand for refrigeration increases due to population growth and global warming threats. This study examines the use of a cascade vapor-compression/adsorption refrigeration system in hot weather, focusing on condensing temperatures of 50, 55, and 60 °C, whereas an air-cooled condenser is in use due to practical considerations. A fully coupled transient model is developed using COMSOL Multiphysics to simulate the integrated system, considering the practical limitations of the vapor compression system (VCS) and the dynamic nature of the adsorption system (ADS). The model combines a lumped model for the ADS with the manufacturer’s data for a VCS compressor at different condensing and evaporating temperatures. It was found that the VCS is more sensitive to the change in the ADS’s condensing temperature, since when the temperature is raised from 50 °C to 60 °C, the VCS’s COP decreases by 29.5%, while the ADS’s COP decreases by 7.55%. Furthermore, the cycle time of ADS plays an important role in providing the cooling requirements for the bottoming cycle (VCS), and it can be optimized to maximize the energy conversion efficiency of the VCS. At optimum cycle time and compared to the conventional VCS, the cascade system can boost the cooling capacity of the VCS by 18.2%, lower the compressor power by 63.2%, and greatly enhance the COP by 221%. These results indicate that the application of the cascade VCS/ADS in such severe conditions is a more sustainable and energy-efficient solution to meet the growing need for refrigeration.

Green energy breakthroughs: Harnessing nano-catalysts and enzymatic catalysts for bioenergy generation

Microbial fuel cells and anaerobic digestion are promising bioenergy methods but inefficient and scalable. With its exceptional surface area-to-volume ratio, nano-catalysts are revolutionizing this field. Researchers have improved energy conversion efficiency by immobilizing or embedding nanoparticles on electrodes or catalytic supports to promote electron transport. Nanomaterials like graphene-based catalysts and metal nanoparticles speed up organic matter breakdown and make bioenergy systems more profitable. Researchers are working harder to find new bioenergy-generating methods to address environmental concerns and the demand for sustainable energy. The study discusses how nano-catalysts and enzymatic catalysts are revolutionizing bioenergy production in green energy. Additionally, enzymatic catalysts are the best bioenergy catalysts. Highly specialized, biocompatible, and renewable enzymes provide unrivaled biofuel production potential. Protein engineering and immobilization have improved enzymes for bioenergy systems. Enzymatic catalysts enable biofuel generation from more feedstocks without harsh chemical procedures by controlling biological reactions quickly and precisely. Combining nano- and enzymatic catalysts is promising. Nano-catalysts improve enzymatic processes by creating a favorable microenvironment, enhancing surface binding sites, and enabling substrate transport. This combination may maximize bioenergy systems' biofuel output and wastewater treatment capabilities. According to this study, integrating nano- and enzymatic catalysts is a green energy breakthrough. These advances will improve bioenergy generation by overcoming current techniques, opening new sustainable energy production prospects, and expediting our transition to a greener, more sustainable future.

Finite Element Analysis and Design of a Flexible Thermoelectric Generator with a Rhombus Gap Structure.

Flexible thermoelectric generators (f-TEGs) offer an opportunity to realize wearable, self-powered electronic devices. A typical f-TEG consists of flexible electrodes and rigid thermoelectric (TE) legs in a flexible package. In the realm of f-TEGs utilizing flexible electrodes and TE cuboids, our unwavering objective lies in the attainment of enhanced flexibility and elevated energy conversion efficiency. In this paper, we employ a quasi-three-dimensional thermal model to design an f-TEG with a rhombus gap structure (E/A-RhTEG) with its optimized performance validated by simulation and experiment. Additionally, the lateral and vertical thermal resistances are introduced to further explain the optimizing principle in the f-TEG's output performance. Compared with the conventional TEG with a rectangular air gap structure (E/A-ReTEG), E/A-RhTEG demonstrates improved energy conversion efficiency to some extent. Simulation results indicate that the output power and energy conversion efficiency of a 25-np-pair E/A-RhTEG at a 30 K temperature gradient reach 8.45 mW and 2.55%, which represent a performance improvement of 3.09 and 6.28%, respectively, compared to E/A-ReTEG. To further elucidate the optimization principle in the performance of f-TEGs, additional considerations are given to the lateral and vertical resistances. In this study, E/A-RhTEG comprising 25 np pairs is fabricated utilizing TE cuboids. Experimental findings indicate that E/A-RhTEG exhibits a voltage output of 127.07 mV when subjected to a temperature difference of 30 K, which demonstrates a performance enhancement of 4.06% compared to E/A-ReTEG. Furthermore, this study also demonstrates its implementation when wrapped around a curved surface and successfully achieves a self-powered device system after device performance optimization.

Thermodynamic analysis of natural gas/hydrogen-fueled compressed air energy storage system

In this paper, a diabatic compressed air energy storage system fueled by a natural gas/hydrogen mixture that integrates heating and power generation is proposed. A comprehensive thermodynamic analysis has been conducted to identify the key factors influencing system performance and elucidate the detailed formation and distribution patterns of irreversible losses when utilizing a hydrogen-natural gas blend as fuel in the proposed system. The research results indicate that increasing the hydrogen blending ratio from 0.5 to 1 lead to greater enhancements in roundtrip efficiency (∼1.08% vs. ∼0.33%), exergy efficiency (∼3.88% vs. ∼1.15%), and energy density (∼1.24% vs. ∼0.42%) compared to an increase from 0 to 0.5. The combustor suffers the largest exergy destruction proportion, with a notable reduction in exergy destruction achieved through increased hydrogen blending. System performance benefits significantly from higher combustor outlet temperatures and expansion ratios at various hydrogen blending ratios. The rate of change in exergy efficiency (∼42.76% vs. ∼83.17%) and energy density (∼58.83%) demonstrates an inverse correlation with the varied parameters (1100–1500K, 4–8), except for the rate of change in energy density (∼6.76%), which displays a positive relationship with the combustor outlet temperature. Notably, a significant decrease in the rate of change in roundtrip efficiency (∼1.87% vs. ∼6.64%) is observed within a specific parameter range (1400–1500K, 5–6). Sensitivity analysis identifies the combustor outlet temperature as the most influential factor in enhancing system performance, consistently showing positive effects of the hydrogen blending ratio.

Classification of anomalies in photovoltaic systems using supervised machine learning techniques and real data

In a photovoltaic (PV) plant, various types of anomalies can lead to a decrease in energy conversion efficiency. These anomalies represent deviations from the normal behavior of the plant. Understanding the system’s behavior and identifying deviations from normality are crucial for implementing preventive and corrective measures to ensure the expected economic return on investment in the plant. One effective approach for anomaly detection and classification is the utilization of Supervised Machine Learning Techniques (SMLT). However, this approach comes with several challenges, including the classification of the training dataset, temporal variations, uncertainties, model interpretability, data scarcity, and generalization of the model to different systems and locations, among others. In this way, this study aims to explore the application of SMLT in PV systems and compare different methods. To achieve this, a methodology was developed to create a training and testing synthetic dataset based on real irradiance data, followed by a new process flow for ensemble SMLT. Finally, the new process flow for ensemble SMLT was tested on a real PV plant and synthetic dataset. The methodology for the proposed algorithm was an ensemble of Random Forest with K-nearest neighbors (k-NN) and an inference machine for specific classes. The results indicate that the algorithm successfully classified anomalies, achieving an AUC of 0.9815 for the synthetic dataset and an AUC of 0.9861 for the real dataset, as well as an accuracy of 0.9647 for the real dataset. It is evident that SMLT can serve as valuable tools for detecting and addressing issues, particularly due to the abundance of data and the diverse characteristics inherent to PV plants.

Performance analysis of a compressed air energy storage incorporated with a biomass power generation system

Compressed air energy storage technology is recognized as a promising method to consume renewable energy on a large scale and establish the safe and stable operation of the power grid. To improve the energy efficiency and economic performance of the compressed air energy storage system, this study proposes a design for integrating a compressed air energy storage system with a biomass power generation system. In the energy storage process, the feedwater from the biomass power generation system is used to cool the compressed air in the compressed air energy storage system. In the energy release process, the flue gas from the biomass power generation system is used to heat the compressed air. Besides, the compressed air from the compressed air energy storage system first works in the expander and then goes to the biomass power generation system for combustion. Based on the system simulation, the proposed system is assessed from the energy, exergy, economy, and environment perspectives. The results show that the round-trip efficiency and the energy storage density of the compressed air energy storage subsystem are 84.90 % and 15.91 MJ/m3, respectively. The exergy efficiency of the compressed air energy storage subsystem is 80.46 %, with the highest exergy loss in the throttle valves. The total investment of the compressed air energy storage subsystem is 256.45 k$, and the dynamic payback period and the net present value are 4.20 years and 340.48 k$. Besides, the proposed system’s CO2 emission is 258 kg/GWh. This study provides a new option for enhancing the performance of compressed air energy storage through the system integration.