Storage Options Research Articles

Electrical Conductivity of Binary, Ternary, Quaternary and Quinary Molten Salt Mixtures Based on NaCl-CaCl2

As intermittent energy sources like solar energy and wind power emerge, the need for energy storage becomes important, energy availability needs to be ensured also when the Sun is not shining, and the wind is not blowing. Energy storage can also be used for peak shaving purposes during periods of high demand. Energy storage solutions need to be inexpensive and reliable. Novel all-liquid batteries are considered one option for stationary energy storage and the Na-Zn battery is currently being investigated. During charging Na metal is formed on the negative electrode from a NaCl containing electrolyte and ZnCl2 is formed from a Zn pool on the positive electrode. The electrical conductivity of the molten salt is an important factor in the ohmic loss through the electrolyte. The composition of the electrolyte decides the electrical conductivity, and this conductivity also changes during the charge/discharge cycles of the battery as the electrolyte composition changes accordingly. Electrical conductivity has been measured on different compositions of NaCl-CaCl2, NaCl-CaCl2-LiCl, NaCl-CaCl2-BaCl2, NaCl-CaCl2-ZnCl2, NaCl-CaCl2-BaCl2-SrCl2, NaCl-CaCl2-BaCl2-ZnCl2 and NaCl-CaCl2-BaCl2-SrCl2-ZnCl2 molten salts in an in-house built apparatus. The smaller ions (Li and Na) give higher electrical conductivity, while the larger ions (Ba, Sr, and Zn) reduce the electrical conductivity.

Operando Fabricated Quasi-Solid-State Electrolyte Hinders Polysulfide Shuttles in an Advanced Li-S Battery

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are a promising option for energy storage due to their theoretical high energy density and the use of abundant, low-cost sulfur cathodes. Nevertheless, several obstacles remain, including the dissolution of lithium polysulfides (LiPS) into the electrolyte and a restricted operational temperature range. This manuscript presents a promising approach to addressing these challenges. The manuscript describes a straightforward and scalable in situ thermal polymerization method for synthesizing a quasi-solid-state electrolyte (QSE) by gelling pentaerythritol tetraacrylate (PETEA), azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN), and a dual salt lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and lithium nitrate (LiNO3)-based liquid electrolyte. The resulting freestanding quasi-solid-state electrolyte (QSE) effectively inhibits the polysulfide shuttle effect across a wider temperature range of −25 °C to 45 °C. The electrolyte’s ability to prevent LiPS migration and cluster formation has been corroborated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy analyses. The optimized QSE composition appears to act as a physical barrier, thereby significantly improving battery performance. Notably, the capacity retention has been demonstrated to reach 95% after 100 cycles at a 2C rate. Furthermore, the simple and scalable synthesis process paves the way for the potential commercialization of this technology.

Enhancing quantitative imaging to study DNA damage response: A guide to automated liquid handling and imaging

Laboratory automation and quantitative high-content imaging are pivotal in advancing diverse scientific fields. These innovative techniques alleviate the burden of manual labour, facilitating large-scale experiments characterized by exceptional reproducibility. Nonetheless, the seamless integration of such systems continues to pose a constant challenge in many laboratories. Here, we present a meticulously designed workflow that automates the immunofluorescence staining process, coupled with quantitative high-content imaging to study DNA damage signalling as an example. This is achieved by using an automatic liquid handling system for sample preparation. Additionally, we also offer practical recommendations aimed at ensuring the reproducibility and scalability of experimental outcomes. We illustrate the high level of efficiency and reproducibility achieved through the implementation of the liquid handling system but also addresses the associated challenges. Furthermore, we extend the discussion into critical aspects such as microscope selection, optimal objective choices, and considerations for high-content image acquisition. Our study streamlines the image analysis process, offering valuable recommendations for efficient computing resources and the integration of cutting-edge deep learning techniques. Emphasizing the paramount importance of robust data management systems aligned with the FAIR data principles, we provide practical insights into suitable storage options and effective data visualization techniques. Together, our work serves as a comprehensive guide for life science laboratories seeking to elevate their high-content quantitative imaging capabilities through the seamless integration of advanced laboratory automation.

Storage stability of phycobiliproteins in a hydroalcoholic solution evaluated by an optical method

The aim was to evaluate the stability of pigments of the phycobiliprotein group extracted from the biomass of the Spirulina (Arthrospira) platensis cyanobacterium and the Porphyridium purpureum red microalgae. Water extracts of phycobiliproteins were obtained following a double freezing of the raw biomass of Arthrospira platensis and Porphyridium purpureum. An extraction was carried out with a phosphate buffer (0.05 M, pH = 7) in the cold (5 °C) for 24 hours. To the extracts obtained, 96% ethanol was added until its concentration in the solution was 20%. The hydroalcoholic extracts of phycobiliproteins were stored for three months. Pigment concentrations were monitored by an optical method. The allophycocyanin pigment demonstrated the highest storage stability. The highest degradation rate of phycobiliproteins was observed during their storage in the light at room temperature. The degradation rate of pigments under these conditions was 9and 80-fold higher (for B-phycoerythrin and C-phycocyanin, respectively) than similar indices during their storage in the dark and in the cold. C-phycocyanin was the least stable, compared to other studied phycobiliproteins. Its degradation rate under all storage options was 5to 10-fold higher than that of B-phycoerythrin under similar conditions. An essential conservation requirement for C-phycocyanin and β-phycoerythrin in hydroalcoholic solutions was the absence of light. For C-phycocyanin, a low temperature was necessary as well. Storage of B-phycoerythrin in the dark at room temperature is acceptable. These conditions can ensure the conservation of up to 86% of pigments in hydroalcoholic solutions for 25–30 days.

Optimizing Data Protection: Selecting the Right Storage Devices for Your Strategy

Choosing the appropriate storage devices is critical for optimizing data protection strategies. This article explores various storage options, including disk-based, deduplication, tape, network, cloud, and OST devices, offering insights into their ideal use cases. By understanding the benefits and applications of each storage type, administrators can make informed decisions to enhance their data protection and recovery efforts, achieving an effective 3-2-1 data protection strategy.

Emerging Zinc‐Ion Capacitor Science: Compatible Principle, Design Paradigm, and Frontier Applications

AbstractThe development of high energy/power density and long lifespan device is always the frontier direction and attracts great research attention in the energy storage fields. Zinc‐ion capacitors (ZICs), as an integration of zinc‐ion batteries and supercapacitors, have been widely regarded as one of the viable future options for energy storage, owing to their variable system assembly method and potential performance improvement. However, the research of ZICs still locate at initial stage until now, and how to construct the suitable systems for different condition is still challenging. Herein, the recent advance in the rational design of ZICs is reviewed in order to construct related theory including compatible principle and design paradigm. It starts with a systematically summary of the fundamental theory as well as the motivation. Then, the electrode materials are classified into capacitor‐type and battery‐type based on the storage mechanism, and the design strategies and progress of these two‐type candidates are comprehensively discussed, aiming to reveal the inherent relationship between the performance of devices and the component as well as architecture of electrode materials. Beyond that, the future perspectives in this emerging field are also given, expecting to guide the construction of high‐performance ZICs for practical applications and boost its development.

Experimental study on the heat storage characteristics of rock bed heat storage system with different packing structure

Establishing energy storage systems can provide an effective solution to the challenges posed by the variability and intermittency of renewable energy sources. Among the available options for energy storage, rock-packed bed thermal energy storage systems are widely favored for their performance, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. The more compact the rock packing, the more adequate the heat exchange of the system; however, poorer permeability increases fluid friction losses and pressure drop, which is detrimental to heat transport within the system. The permeability and heat exchange of the system jointly determines its thermal energy storage performance. This study proposes a composite packing scheme utilizing intact rock slabs and broken rock to enhance the thermal energy storage performance of the packed bed. This approach aims to augment heat exchange efficiency and elevate energy storage density while maintaining the bed's commendable permeability. Heat injection and heat extraction experiments of rock beds were conducted to study the heat storage characteristics of the rock-packed bed thermal storage system under different packing structure. In addition, this study investigates the effect of different injection pressures on the storage and release of heat in the system. The results show that the volume of the pore space of the filled bed, serving as the primary domain for gas flow and gas-rock heat exchange, is a decisive factor affecting the packed bed's permeability and heat exchange performance. When the porosity of the packed bed increased from 5.5 % to 9.9 %, its permeability increased from 1.42 × 10−13 m2 to 3.20 × 10−13 m2, yet the thermal exchange efficiency declined from 67.2 % to 65.3 %. Reasonably arranging intact rock slabs and broken rock fill can alter the path of heat transfer within the packed bed, thereby effectively enhancing its heat storage and release performance. For the same pore volume conditions, the heat exchange efficiency of the packed bed is increased by about 10 % by increasing the number of layers of broken rock fill. Additionally, high gas injection pressures can facilitate heat storage and release processes, but it does not mean that this is more efficient. The research findings can guide the selection of packing and injection schemes in packed bed thermal energy storage systems.

The role of green ammonia in meeting challenges towards a sustainable development in China

The shift to a sustainable development has become an important issue in China. This paper discusses the role of green ammonia in promoting China's energy, environmental and economic sustainability which has not drawn enough attention. First, key challenges in China's energy transition, decarbonisation and regional sustainable development are explored. The coal-dominated energy consumption has placed great obstacles in achieving energy transition and led to massive CO2 emission since the large-scale industrialization. The high dependency on oil and gas import has threatened China's energy security. Imbalanced and unsustainable regional development is identified with data envelopment analysis. Second, the potential of green ammonia in meeting these challenges is analysed. Ammonia is examined to be a flexible and economic option for large-scale hydrogen transport and storage. Co-firing ammonia in coal power generation at 3 % rate is evaluated as an option for achieving low-carbon transition by 2030. Benefits of developing a green ammonia economy is discussed from energy, environmental and economic aspects. The practice can decline fossil energy consumption, enhance energy security, and facilitate renewable energy delivery and storage, industry decarbonisation, and regional development. We assume the findings and results contribute to addressing sustainability challenges and realizing a hydrogen economy in China.

Critical diameter for a single-tank molten salt storage – Parametric study on structural tank design

Molten salt thermal energy storage (TES) is a cost-effective option for grid-connected storage in both concentrating solar power (CSP) plants and retrofitted thermal power plants in a multimegawatt scale. Current systems use two tanks (hot and cold), but future systems may use a single tank with a transient temperature profile (hot in the top and cold in the bottom) to reduce costs and space. However, the structural and mechanical design of large-scale molten salt single-tank storages at 560 °C has not been fully explored, and the impact of increasing the operating temperature to 620 °C is still uncertain. The challenge presented by a single tank is the existence of a temperature profile that results in a varying thermal expansion of the tank shell along its height. In the case of larger tanks, this discrepancy can reach a magnitude of centimeters, which in turn gives rise to bending moments. To the best of our knowledge, this study addresses the issue of bending stresses in large-sized high-temperature tanks with thermal stratification for the first time. The modelling approach is applied to single-tank CSP TES systems as a case study to evaluate the constraints imposed by tank size and wall thickness.With the help of experimentally validated numerical methods, it is revealed that a low thermocline thickness can be a limiting factor for large tank diameters. It is shown that the temperature has a major influence on maximum possible tank size: if the operating temperature is raised from 560 °C to 620 °C, the permitted tank diameter is significantly reduced when using the same tank wall material. A possible approach is to use a more heat resistant steel for 620 °C. Results of the parametric study show that designing a single tank below a critical diameter only requires a moderate increase of the wall thickness compared to the two-tank system with constant temperature profiles. Based on this parametric study a formula for the critical tank diameter is developed and presented in this work. The paper concludes with recommendations on how increased wall stresses can be addressed by an appropriate design.

Production of colloidally stable calcium carbonate precipitates to enhance CO2 subsurface storage through mineralization

Around the world, a lot of conversations centre on the pursuit of carbon sequestration and storage. The goal is to create solutions that minimize atmospheric emissions while guaranteeing storage security. In light of this, mineral and solubility trapping are seen to be the safest among the numerous potential alternatives. Aquifers and depleted oil and gas reservoirs are just two of the many possible storage locations for solubility trapping that exist worldwide. However, all brines have a maximum solubility limit that once reached, no further CO2 can be dissolved, thus, its limitation. On the other hand, because CO2 is transformed into solids and stored in that state in the case of mineral trapping, it is deemed the safest long-term storage option. But according to recent research, it takes a long time—roughly two years—to complete. Thus, the mineralization of CO2 in a CaCl2-rich solution is shown for the first time to be accomplished in 24 h. This study's technique included using a chelating agent to achieve mineralization and looking at the effects of pressure, temperature, and chelating agent concentration on the process.The findings of this investigation demonstrated that, in the presence of a chelating agent, calcite precipitation can occur from the interaction of CO2 with a CaCl2-rich solution in less than a day. The chelating agent's dehydration of the cations (Ca2+) to speed up their interaction with the carbonate ion in the solution is the mechanism causing the notable improvement in the mineralization kinetic observed here. Mineralization, which is normally assumed to take a long time, can be accomplished in a day by following this easy procedure. Further investigation was conducted on the precipitates' bulk and mineralogical composition. Additionally, a scanning electron microscope was utilized to identify the five unique crystal forms that were created in the precipitated calcite. The results of this study are also regarded as revolutionary since they have far-reaching consequences for our efforts to store CO2 in the safest possible way. Furthermore, reject water from a water treatment procedure like reverse osmosis might be the feed stream for the process this study describes. Consequently, wastewater can be turned into wealth and help achieve sustainability objectives.

An EOQ Model for Delayed Deteriorating Items: Analysis of Three-Stage Consumption, Dual Storage Facilities, and Variable Partial Backlogging Rates

Study’s Excerpt An Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) model that accounts for items with delayed deterioration by integrating three distinct stages of consumption rates, dual storage facilities, and partially backlogged shortages was proposed. The model can minimize overall variable costs and establish the conditions for the existence and uniqueness of the optimal solution by optimizing cycle length, order quantity, and depletion timing. The model could help in inventory management of perishable goods, particularly in scenarios involving multiple storage options and consumption phases. Full Abstract This paper presents an Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) model for items with delayed deterioration, incorporating three distinct stages of consumption rates, dual storage facilities, and shortages. The model assumes that the average consumption rates before and after the onset of deterioration, as well as during shortages, are constant but differ from one another. The shortages are partially backlogged and vary according to the waiting time until the next replenishment. The model aims to minimize the overall variable cost per unit of time by optimizing the cycle length, order quantity, and the timing at which the inventory in the owned warehouse is depleted. The paper establishes the necessary and sufficient conditions to ensure the existence and uniqueness of the optimal solution. A sensitivity analysis is conducted, and the findings are used to derive managerial insights.

Hydrogen storage and refueling options: A performance evaluation

This study focuses on the comparative modeling and refueling simulations of hydrogen refueling stations for hydrogen-powered vehicles and high-pressure hydrogen storage options in tanks. The study further aims to simulate these under actual conditions in Ontario, Canada for better assessment which can be treated as a case study as well. The specific tests explore the modeling of hydrogen flow between the recharging station to the car's tank, as well as the optimization of transient variations in temperature, pressure and mass flow rate of hydrogen throughout the process of refueling a fuel cell electric vehicle. The H2FILLS program is utilized to assist for the simulation studies. The primary objective is to replicate various practical weather conditions, tank pressures, flow rates, and refueling periods for different categories of high-pressure hydrogen storage tanks and analyze their storage efficiency. The three different commercially available high-pressure type-IV hydrogen storage tanks were considered in the study as tank-I, tank-II and tank-III with working pressures of 500 bar, 700 bar, 700 bar, and hydrogen storage capacity of 9.5 kg, 4.6 kg, and 5 kg, respectively. Seven different ambient temperatures were selected to mimic seasonal effects. When the power output is constant, with temperature increases, flow rate decreases, and therefore time required to refuel also increases. There is a linear relationship between the final mass flow rate and the ambient temperature, where the mass flow rate drops by approximately 1.8 kg/h for every 10 °C rise in temperature. The variation in ultimate mass flow rate between the highest and lowest ambient temperatures is roughly 5.4 kg/h. Based on the refueling time and docking, undocking, downtime it’s been found that approximately five minutes is wasted between each vehicle. This can help reduce average of 230.02 kt, 231.70 kt, and 235.06 kt CO2 emission per year for vehicle-III, vehicle-II, and vehicle-I, respectively. Lastly, yearly CO2 reduction forecast shows that it may reach 0.9 Mt, 1.6 Mt, 2.7Mt, 3.76 Mt, and 4.73 Mt in the year 2030, 2035, 2040, 2045, and 2050, respectively corresponding to the Global Net-Zero scenario.

Insights of oxygen vacancies engineered structural, morphological, and electrochemical attributes of Cr-doped Co3O4 nanoparticles as redox active battery-type electrodes for hybrid supercapacitors

The global warming issue is spurring the development of renewable energy solutions, where supercapacitors are emerging as promising options for energy storage. Despite advancements in battery-type materials, doping is a practical approach to enhancing electrochemical performance. In this study, using the solution combustion method, we synthesized spinel Co3O4 nanoparticles doped with chromium (Cr) at 2.5 % and 5 % concentrations. The addition of Cr significantly modifies the structural, morphological, surface, and electrochemical properties of Co3O4 nanoparticles. Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirm that this doping method effectively regulates the oxygen vacancy defect level. Moreover, Cr dopants and oxygen vacancies modify electronic states, facilitating more accessible contact to active sites, improving electrical conductivity and more intricate redox chemistry. Notably, the 2.5 % Cr-doped Co3O4 configuration demonstrates substantially enhanced specific capacity (334.64 C g−1/92.95 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1) and rate performance (59 %), surpassing those of 5 % Cr-doped Co3O4 and undoped Co3O4. Furthermore, the as-fabricated 2.5 % Cr-doped Co3O4//activated carbon (AC) hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) device exhibits a noteworthy energy density of 42.5 Wh kg−1 at 1295.73 W kg−1, withstanding 33.54 Wh kg−1 even at a power density of 5720.46 W kg−1. The HSC device showcases outstanding cyclic performance with 100 % capacity retention after 5000 cycles. Therefore, our work offers a viable way to improve the efficiency of hybrid supercapacitors by providing essential insights into the design of defect-engineered battery-type electrode materials.

Sustainable Recovery of Polyphenols and Carotenoids from Horned Melon Peel via Cloud Point Extraction.

Using natural plant extracts as food additives is a promising approach for improving food products' quality, nutritional value, and safety, offering advantages for both consumers and the environment. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to develop a sustainable method for extracting polyphenols and carotenoids from horned melon peel using the cloud point extraction (CPE) technique, intending to utilize it as a natural food additive. CPE is novel promising extraction method for separation and pre-concentration of different compounds while being simple, inexpensive, and low-toxic. Three parameters within the CPE approach, i.e., pH, equilibrium temperature, and equilibrium time, were investigated as independent variables through the implementation of Box-Behnken design and statistical analyses. The optimized conditions for the maximum recovery of both polyphenols and carotenoids, reaching 236.14 mg GAE/100 g and 13.80 mg β carotene/100 g, respectively, were a pH value of 7.32, an equilibrium temperature of 55 °C, and an equilibrium time of 43.03 min. The obtained bioactives' recovery values under the optimized conditions corresponded to the predicted ones, indicating the suitability of the employed RSM model. These results highlight the effectiveness of CPE in extracting bioactive compounds with varying polarities from agricultural by-products, underscoring its potential for enhancing the value of food waste and advancing sustainable practices in food processing. According to microbiological food safety parameters, the optimal CPE extract is suitable for food applications, while its storage under refrigerated and dark conditions is particularly beneficial. The CPE extract's enhanced stability under these conditions makes it a more viable option for long-term storage, preserving both safety and quality.

Application of a simple organic acid as a green alternative for the recovery of cathode metals from lithium-ion battery cathode materials

Industrialization, technology, and population growth have on one hand resulted in the rapid rise for energy demand and on the other hand led to the pursuit for alternative carbon neutral energy sources to satisfy demand, address climate change and promote sustainable development. The transition to renewable energy sources has resulted in the rapid rise in energy storage options with battery technologies at the forefront. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have emerged as a leading battery energy storage option. The rise in LIB technology demand has resulted in a proportional increase in the demand for the various materials used in their manufacture. Primary sources of several of the LIB component materials largely consist of mining activities, however, recycling has emerged as a promising secondary material source. In this work, we evaluate the application of a green, organic acid treatment approach utilizing propionic acid in the recovery of key metals from LIB cathode materials. The study delved into exploring the application of both commercially sourced virgin LIB cathode powder (VCP) and recovered spent LIB cathode powder (SCP) and investigating the system leaching characteristics. The highest metal recoveries were obtained on leaching the SCP, with metal recoveries determined as 92.9%, 87.4%, 92.7% and 94.0% for Co, Li, Mn and Ni respectively. The difference in the recoveries on leaching metals from the VCP and SCP was under 5% for each metal. Further, the leaching model was determined as chemical reaction-controlled on using the SCP, and the activation energies were evaluated as 60.37 kJ/mol, 53.38 kJ/mol, 63.98 kJ/mol and 60.20 kJ/mol for Co, Li, Mn and Ni respectively, agreeing with the deduced chemical reaction-controlled leaching mechanism. By application of a simple organic acid, propionic acid, for organic acid leaching operations we contribute to the diversification of the lixiviant options for LIB waste treatment.

ULPING-Based Titanium Oxide as a New Cathode Material for Zn-Ion Batteries

The need for alternative energy storage options beyond lithium-ion batteries is critical due to their high costs, resource scarcity, and environmental concerns. Zinc-ion batteries offer a promising solution, given zinc’s abundance, cost effectiveness, and safety, particularly its compatibility with non-flammable aqueous electrolytes. In this study, the potential of laser-ablation-based titanium oxide as a novel cathode material for zinc-ion batteries was investigated. The ultra-short laser pulses for in situ nanostructure generation (ULPING) technique was employed to generate nanostructured titanium oxide. This laser ablation process produced highly porous nanostructures, enhancing the electrochemical performance of the electrodes. Zinc and titanium oxide samples were evaluated using two-electrode and three-electrode setups, with cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) techniques. Optimal cathode materials were identified in the Ti-5W (laser ablated twice) and Ti-10W (laser ablated ten times) samples, which demonstrated excellent charge capacity and energy density. The Ti-10W sample exhibited superior long-term performance due to its highly porous nanostructures, improving ion diffusion and electron transport. The potential of laser-ablated titanium oxide as a high-performance cathode material for zinc-ion batteries was highlighted, emphasizing the importance of further research to optimize laser parameters and enhance the stability and scalability of these electrodes.

Hydrogen storage with gravel and pipes in lakes and reservoirs

Climate change is projected to have substantial economic, social, and environmental impacts worldwide. Currently, the leading solutions for hydrogen storage are in salt caverns, and depleted natural gas reservoirs. However, the required geological formations are limited to certain regions. To increase alternatives for hydrogen storage, this paper proposes storing hydrogen in pipes filled with gravel in lakes, hydropower, and pumped hydro storage reservoirs. Hydrogen is insoluble in water, non-toxic, and does not threaten aquatic life. Results show the levelized cost of hydrogen storage to be 0.17 USD kg−1 at 200 m depth, which is competitive with other large scale hydrogen storage options. Storing hydrogen in lakes, hydropower, and pumped hydro storage reservoirs increases the alternatives for storing hydrogen and might support the development of a hydrogen economy in the future. The global potential for hydrogen storage in reservoirs and lakes is 3 and 12 PWh, respectively. Hydrogen storage in lakes and reservoirs can support the development of a hydrogen economy in the future by providing abundant and cheap hydrogen storage.

Techno-economic assessment of hydrogen supply solutions for industrial site

In Austria, one of the highest priorities of hydrogen usage lies in the industrial sector, particularly as a feedstock and for high-temperature applications. Connecting hydrogen producers with consumers is challenging and requires comprehensive research to outline the advantages and challenges associated with various hydrogen supply options.This study focuses on techno-economic assessment of different supply solutions for industrial sites, mainly depicted in two categories: providing hydrogen by transport means and via on-site production. The technologies needed for the investigation of these scenarios are identified based on the predictions of available technologies in near future (2030). The transportation options analyzed include delivering liquid hydrogen by truck, liquid hydrogen by railway and gaseous hydrogen via pipeline. For on-site low-carbon hydrogen production, a proton-exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis was selected, as resent research suggests lower costs for PEM electrolysis compared to alkaline electrolysis (AEL). The frequency of deliveries and storage options vary by scenario and are determined by the industrial demand profile, transport capacity and electrolyser production capacity. The assessment evaluates the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of each option, considering factors such as infrastructure requirements, energy efficiency and economic viability.At a hydrogen demand of 80 GWh, the transport options indicate hydrogen supply costs in the range of 14–24 ct/kWh. In contrast, the scenarios investigating on-site production of hydrogen show costs between 29 and 49 ct/kWh. Therefore, transport by truck, rail or pipeline is economically advantageous to own-production under the specific assumptions and conditions. However, the results indicate that as energy demand increases, on-site production becomes more attractive. Additionally, the influence of electricity prices and the hydrogen production/import price were identified as decisive factors for the overall hydrogen supply costs.

Hybrid sand cat‐galactic swarm optimization‐based adaptive maximum power point tracking and blade pitch controller for wind energy conversion system

SummaryAs wind energy is sustainable, pollution‐free, easily available, and free of cost, it has become an efficient source of renewable energy for electricity generation. But, the problem with wind energy is that it varies with time, seasons, and location. This makes the Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) unstable as it frequently needs to match the load demands. The balance in power generation by wind energy is essential since it has to be connected to various grids. So, this unbalanced energy production can affect the stability of the associated power grids as well. It also results in expensive regulatory measures, storage options, and load shedding. So, the stable operation of the WECS is highly essential to adapt it as a trustable source of electricity production. The stable operation of the WECS requires a robust and advanced system for control. Better control of the wind power extracting model is achieved by controlling the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and blade pitch. So, an Adaptive MPPT and Blade Pitch Controller (BPC) for the WECS have been developed in this article, with the support of a hybrid optimization algorithm. In order to enhance the working principles of this controller, two effective algorithms such as Sand Cat Swarm Optimization (SCSO) and Galactic Swarm Optimization (GSO) are integrated and named Hybrid Sand Cat Galactic Swarm Optimization (HSC‐GSO). With the help of the recommended HSC‐GSO, the functionality of the controller is enhanced and also at the same time this algorithm helps to optimize the three gains in the Proportional Integral Differential (PID) controller of both MPPT and BPC, respectively. Moreover, with the support of the proposed HSC‐GSO the damping oscillations in the WECS output power and voltage are minimized. In the end, the numerical analysis is conducted for the presented system by comparing it with the traditional techniques. From the overall result analysis, the stability of the recommended adaptive WECS is 97, which is higher than the conventional algorithms such as DHOA, SCSO, GSO, and DA. Thus, it has been proved that the proposed HSC‐GSO algorithm for the parameters optimization in the PID controller of MPPT and the PID controller of BPC attains high robustness, increased steady‐state stability, and efficient transient response than the traditional techniques.

Unveiling the Hidden Potential of Two-Dimensional Black Phosphorus for Advanced Supercapacitor Applications.

In response to the contemporary energy crisis, researchers have intensified efforts to explore green and renewable energy sources alongside developing robust energy storage devices. Supercapacitors stand out among various storage options due to their high-power density and rapid charge-discharge cycles. However, their lower energy density poses a challenge, leading to exploration of diverse electrode materials, including black phosphorus (BP). BP, with its two-dimensional (2D) layered structure akin to graphene, exhibits exceptional properties, making it a promising candidate for various applications, including energy storage. This Perspective focuses on the properties of BP as an electrode material for supercapacitors, covering electrochemical performance, charge storage mechanisms, and synthesis methods. Challenges such as restacking and stability have prompted innovative strategies to enhance BP-based supercapacitors, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Furthermore, the fabrication of BP-based hybrid nanocomposites with carbonaceous polymers, conducting polymers, and other 2D materials is discussed, highlighting their efficacy as electrode materials along with future outlooks.