Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Qiliang Wang, Gang Pei, Hongxing Yang
Summary: The novel parabolic trough solar receiver with a radiation shield, based on the theory of the negative thermal-flux region, shows great potential for significant enhancement of the techno-economic performance of solar power plants, improving electrical energy production and reducing the levelized cost of energy.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yu Qiu, Yucong Xu, Qing Li, Jikang Wang, Qiliang Wang, Bin Liu
Summary: The parabolic trough collector with a modified receiver enhanced by solar and hot mirrors can achieve higher optical efficiency compared to conventional receivers, especially under high irradiance and low temperature conditions. The addition of solar and hot mirrors can effectively improve the optical-thermal efficiency of the collector.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yu Qiu, Mingpan Xu, Qing Li, Yucong Xu, Jikang Wang
Summary: Improving the efficiency of the evacuated receiver in a parabolic trough solar plant significantly enhances performance. Four novel modified receivers were designed, with results suggesting that mirrors and heat-reflecting films can improve optical and thermal efficiencies. The modified receiver using only inner film and mirrors showed the highest efficiency compared to others, making it the optimal design for enhancing receiver performance.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ram Kumar Pal, K. Ravi Kumar
Summary: This study investigates the effects of transient solar flux profiles on the thermal-hydraulics of flow boiling in the DSG process. The results show the vapor volume fractions at the absorber outlet, absorber surface temperature, and circumferential temperature distributions under different operating conditions.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Kai Zhao, Hongguang Jin, Zhongrui Gai, Hui Hong
Summary: This study proposes a novel strategy for enhancing the thermal efficiency of solar collector by applying multiple solar selective-absorbing coatings in different sections of the collector. Analysis using a heat transfer model shows that the proposed strategy significantly improves the thermal performance of the system, reducing heat loss and enhancing thermal efficiency.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Richard Felsberger, Armin Buchroithner, Bernhard Gerl, Bernhard Schweighofer, Hannes Wegleiter
Summary: The study introduces a new design and retrofit approach for a concentrated photovoltaic thermal system based on a parabolic trough collector, which employs a simplified topology and hybrid absorber equipped with multi-junction solar cells to achieve high electrical efficiency at reduced costs. Tests on the scaled prototype in Graz, Austria, showed average system efficiency of 75.5%, with peak solar cell efficiency reaching 30%, showcasing the potential for cost reduction in CPV-T systems.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
N. Sreenivasalu Reddy, S. Gowreesh Subramanya, K. C. Vishwanath, M. Karthikeyan, S. Kanchiraya
Summary: The experimental study shows that using a rotary receiver tube can significantly improve the performance of the parabolic trough collector, especially when increasing the friction factor. Additionally, thermal efficiency of the collector can be improved by reducing the inlet temperature and increasing the flow rate.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Natraj, K. S. Reddy
Summary: Solar parabolic trough collectors are a mature technology, but improvements in structural stability and accuracy of reflectors and receivers are necessary. This study investigates the combined effect of thermo-structural instability on collector performance. Results show a decrease in optical efficiency and significant loss due to bending and deflection in the reflector and receiver. This research will benefit the design and monitoring of trough collectors.
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
M. Farooq, M. Farhan, Gulzar Ahmad, Zia ul Rehman Tahir, M. Usman, M. Sultan, M. Saad Hanif, M. Imran, Saqib Anwar, Ahmed M. El-Sherbeeny, M. Ali Shakir
Summary: Due to rapid industrialization and urbanization, the increase in carbon emissions in the atmosphere and the depletion of fossil fuel and gas reserves have led to the search for alternative renewable energy resources. Solar energy is considered as one of the most promising sources. This study analyzes the effect of multiple working fluids on the efficiency of parabolic trough solar collectors (PTCs) using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. Two types of nanofluids, Alumina and Copper-oxide, are used to evaluate the thermal efficiency of PTC through CFD simulations. The study also investigates the impact of absorber tube material and receiver tube length on the working fluid's temperature. The results suggest that nanofluids-based PTCs system shows promise for sustainable environmental applications.
ALEXANDRIA ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Mohamed I. Hassan Ali, Luqman Habib, Youssef Shatilla
Summary: The use of nanofluids as volumetric absorbers of solar energy shows great potential, but the assumptions and simplifications in current numerical models may adversely impact performance prediction. The inherent complexity of nanofluid systems requires advanced mathematical-physical models for effective design and optimization.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Qiliang Wang, Honglun Yang, Mingke Hu, Jingyu Cao, Gang Pei, Hongxing Yang
Summary: This study analyzes the emissive heat loss around the parabolic trough solar receiver, proposes the concept of a negative thermal-flux region, and designs a new parabolic trough receiver with an inner radiation shield to reduce heat loss and enhance heat-collecting performance. This innovative approach shows great potential for breakthrough enhancement in the performance of parabolic trough collector systems.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Wassila Ajbar, J. A. Hernandez, A. Parrales, Lizeth Torres
Summary: This paper investigates the use of eight hybrid nanofluids to improve the thermal efficiency of a parabolic trough solar collector (PTSC). The developed thermal model shows good agreement with experimental data, with an average error of 1.92% and 2.34% in calculating outlet temperature and thermal efficiency. The simulation results demonstrate that the thermal efficiency of PTSC can achieve a maximum improvement of 2.8% using hybrid nanofluids and an average improvement of 1.6% compared to Syltherm 800.
CASE STUDIES IN THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Anish Malan, K. Ravi Kumar
Summary: The study presents the coupled flux distribution and thermal analysis of large aperture PTSC incorporating limb darkening effect. Various parameters affecting flux distribution are analyzed, and the need for improved manufacturing standards to enhance the performance of large aperture PTSC is highlighted.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2021)
Review
Thermodynamics
Tawfiq Chekifi, Moustafa Boukraa
Summary: This article presents a comprehensive review of the performance improvement research on parabolic trough collectors, with a focus on works using numerical methods. It outlines the possible further developments of these devices and identifies areas that need more attention and investigation.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2022)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Mridul Sharma, Ravindra Jilte
Summary: Solar energy harnessing, particularly using parabolic trough solar collectors, is common in many countries for applications like distributing process heat and steam production. Focus has been on improving the thermal potential of the receiver tube, with passive techniques such as inserts and geometrical changes showing efficiency in increasing thermal performance. Studies on heat transfer enhancement strategies using inserts and geometrical modifications in parabolic trough solar collector's receiver tube indicate potential for further growth in this area.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Qiliang Wang, Honglun Yang, Mingke Hu, Jingyu Cao, Gang Pei, Hongxing Yang
Summary: This study analyzes the emissive heat loss around the parabolic trough solar receiver, proposes the concept of a negative thermal-flux region, and designs a new parabolic trough receiver with an inner radiation shield to reduce heat loss and enhance heat-collecting performance. This innovative approach shows great potential for breakthrough enhancement in the performance of parabolic trough collector systems.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Qiliang Wang, Boxu Shen, Junchao Huang, Honglun Yang, Gang Pei, Hongxing Yang
Summary: A novel parabolic trough solar receiver integrated with vanadium dioxide-based thermochromic coating was proposed to reduce radiant heat loss and improve overall performance. Comprehensive heat transfer models were established and validated for high accuracy in predicting thermal performance. The thermochromic coating showed unique advantages in improving thermal performance of the solar receivers under both M phase and R phase, resulting in reduced heat loss and improved thermal efficiency.
Article
Thermodynamics
Chuxiong Chen, Jingyu Cao, Jingjing Yu, Weixin Liu, Mingke Hu, Qiliang Wang, Dongsheng Jiao, Wei Ren, Gang Pei
Summary: Controllable loop thermosyphon provides efficient heat transfer and precise temperature control in continuous and start-stop operations, showing great potential in applications such as refrigerators. The use of R407C as the working fluid demonstrates effective heat transfer and thermal control, leading to successful management of precise temperatures.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Qiliang Wang, Yao Yao, Mingke Hu, Jingyu Cao, Yu Qiu, Hongxing Yang
Summary: A novel solar tower receiver with an air curtain is proposed to reduce convective heat loss effectively, with numerical studies conducted on plant-scale tower receivers. The impact of different configurations of air nozzles on thermal performance is investigated, along with techno-economic analyses on the Solar Two power plant. The results show significant reduction in heat loss and increase in efficiency and electricity production with the proposed receiver design.
SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yu Qiu, Yucong Xu, Qing Li, Jikang Wang, Qiliang Wang, Bin Liu
Summary: The parabolic trough collector with a modified receiver enhanced by solar and hot mirrors can achieve higher optical efficiency compared to conventional receivers, especially under high irradiance and low temperature conditions. The addition of solar and hot mirrors can effectively improve the optical-thermal efficiency of the collector.
Article
Thermodynamics
Chuyao Wang, Jie Ji, Bendong Yu, Lijie Xu, Qiliang Wang, Xinyi Tian
Summary: The research developed a regulation method based on ANN to control the operation of a hybrid BIPV/T facade, which significantly reduced energy consumption by more than 40% in typical plateau areas. The ANN control system had an error of less than 1% in predicting indoor temperature and eliminated overcooling/overheating issues, decreasing the air-conditioning load significantly.
Article
Thermodynamics
Qiliang Wang, Junchao Huang, Zhicheng Shen, Yao Yao, Gang Pei, Hongxing Yang
Summary: The study on solar power tower receiver efficiency revealed the presence of negative thermal flux phenomenon and proposed the use of novel coatings to enhance thermal performance. By comparing the thermal performance of different tower receivers, it was demonstrated that tower receivers with novel coatings have great potential for practical applications.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Mingke Hu, Bin Zhao, Suhendri, Jingyu Cao, Qiliang Wang, Saffa Riffat, Yuehong Su, Gang Pei
Summary: Recent advancements have enabled daytime radiative cooling using near-perfect emitters, with a new concept proposed to capture renewable energy while dumping waste heat through radiative cooling. Simulation results indicate the need for extremely low solar absorptivity in the emitter and efficient heat transport for simultaneous solar heating and radiative cooling.
SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Junchao Huang, Qiliang Wang, Xi Chen, Shiyuan Xu, Hongxing Yang
Summary: This study evaluates the performance of hollow photovoltaic glazing, photovoltaic vacuum glazing, and hollow photovoltaic vacuum glazing through experiments and numerical simulations, and proposes a simplified heat transfer model for predicting the performance of photovoltaic glazing. Results show that hollow photovoltaic vacuum glazing performs better in different climate conditions compared to other types of glazing.
SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Xianze Ao, Bowen Li, Bin Zhao, Mingke Hu, Hui Ren, Honglun Yang, Jie Liu, Jingyu Cao, Junsheng Feng, Yuanjun Yang, Zeming Qi, Liangbin Li, Chongwen Zou, Gang Pei
Summary: The sun and outer space are significant renewable thermodynamic resources for human beings. A spectrally self-adaptive absorber/emitter (SSA/E) has been developed to combine the functions of photothermal conversion and radiative cooling, allowing efficient energy harvesting from the sun and rejecting energy to the universe.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Qiliang Wang, Guiqiang Li, Jingyu Cao, Mingke Hu, Gang Pei, Hongxing Yang
Summary: The solar power tower is an important application of concentrating solar power technology, and the tower receiver plays a crucial role in absorbing and converting solar energy. However, the nonuniformity of solar flux and temperature distribution on the tower receiver challenges the spectral selectivity of the solar absorbing coating (SAC). A spectral heat transfer model is established and verified to explore the optimal spectral characters and tradeoff of radiation properties of the SAC. The results show that the design principle for the advanced SAC should focus more on thermal emittance rather than solar absorptance.
Article
Thermodynamics
Tianxiang Hu, Trevor Hocksun Kwan, Honglun Yang, Lijun Wu, Weixin Liu, Qiliang Wang, Gang Pei
Summary: It is a great challenge for concentrated solar thermal technology to maximize the use of solar energy due to heat loss. This study employs solar spectrum splitting technology to enhance absorption and conversion of solar radiation. The beam-splitting photothermal system shows excellent performance, with a stable exergy efficiency improvement ratio of around 9% at a splitting wavelength of 1300 nm.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yong Cheng, Fukai Song, Lei Fu, Saishuai Dai, Zhiming Yuan, Atilla Incecik
Summary: This paper investigates the accessibility of wave energy absorption by a dual-pontoon floating breakwater integrated with hybrid-type wave energy converters (WECs) and proposes a hydraulic-pneumatic complementary energy extraction method. The performance of the system is validated through experiments and comparative analysis.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jing Gao, Chao Wang, Zhanwu Wang, Jin Lin, Runkai Zhang, Xin Wu, Guangyin Xu, Zhenfeng Wang
Summary: This study aims to establish a new integrated method for biomass cogeneration project site selection, with a focus on the application of the model in Henan Province. By integrating Geographic Information System and Multiple Criterion Decision Making methods, the study conducts site selection in two stages, providing a theoretical reference for the construction of biomass cogeneration projects.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mert Temiz, Ibrahim Dincer
Summary: The current study presents a hybrid small modular nuclear reactor and solar-based system for sustainable communities, integrating floating and bifacial photovoltaic arrays with a small modular reactor. The system efficiently generates power, hydrogen, ammonia, freshwater, and heat for residential, agricultural, and aquaculture facilities. Thermodynamic analysis shows high energy and exergy efficiencies, as well as large-scale ammonia production meeting the needs of metropolitan areas. The hybridization of nuclear and solar technologies offers advantages of reliability, environmental friendliness, and cost efficiency compared to renewable-alone and fossil-based systems.
Editorial Material
Thermodynamics
Wojciech Stanek, Wojciech Adamczyk
Article
Thermodynamics
Desheng Xu, Yanfeng Li, Tianmei Du, Hua Zhong, Youbo Huang, Lei Li, Xiangling Duanmu
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of hybrid mechanical-natural ventilation for smoke control in complex metro stations. The results show that atrium fires are more significantly impacted by outdoor temperature variations compared to concourse/platform fires. The gathered high-temperature smoke inside the atrium can reach up to 900 K under a 5 MW train fire energy release. The findings provide crucial engineering insights into integrating weather data and adaptable ventilation protocols for smoke prevention/mitigation.
Article
Thermodynamics
Da Guo, Heping Xie, Mingzhong Gao, Jianan Li, Zhiqiang He, Ling Chen, Cong Li, Le Zhao, Dingming Wang, Yiwei Zhang, Xin Fang, Guikang Liu, Zhongya Zhou, Lin Dai
Summary: This study proposes a new in-situ pressure-preserved coring tool and elaborates its pressure-preserving mechanism. The experimental and field test results demonstrate that this tool has a high pressure-preservation capability and can maintain a stable pressure in deep wells. This study provides a theoretical framework and design standards for the development of similar technologies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Aolin Lai, Qunwei Wang
Summary: This study assesses the impact of China's de-capacity policy on renewable energy development efficiency (REDE) using the Global-MSBM model and the difference-in-differences method. The findings indicate that the policy significantly enhances REDE, promoting technological advancements and marketization. Moreover, regions with stricter environmental regulations experience a higher impact.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mostafa Ghasemi, Hegazy Rezk
Summary: This study utilizes fuzzy modeling and optimization to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). By simulating and analyzing experimental data sets, the ideal parameter values for increasing power density, COD elimination, and coulombic efficiency were determined. The results demonstrate that the fuzzy model and optimization methods can significantly improve the performance of MFCs.
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhang Ruan, Lianzhong Huang, Kai Wang, Ranqi Ma, Zhongyi Wang, Rui Zhang, Haoyang Zhao, Cong Wang
Summary: This paper proposes a grey box model for fuel consumption prediction of wing-diesel hybrid vessels based on feature construction. By using both parallel and series grey box modeling methods and six machine learning algorithms, twelve combinations of prediction models are established. A feature construction method based on the aerodynamic performance of the wing and the energy relationship of the hybrid system is introduced. The best combination is obtained by considering the root mean square error, and it shows improved accuracy compared to the white box model. The proposed grey box model can accurately predict the daily fuel consumption of wing-diesel hybrid vessels, contributing to operational optimization and the greenization and decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Article
Thermodynamics
Huayi Chang, Nico Heerink, Junbiao Zhang, Ke He
Summary: This study examines the interaction between off-farm employment decisions between couples and household clean energy consumption in rural China, and finds that two-paycheck households are more likely to consume clean energy. The off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving household clean energy consumption to a higher level, with wage-employed wives having a stronger influence on these decisions than self-employed ones.
Article
Thermodynamics
Hanguan Wen, Xiufeng Liu, Ming Yang, Bo Lei, Xu Cheng, Zhe Chen
Summary: Demand-side management is crucial to smart energy systems. This paper proposes a data-driven approach to understand the relationship between energy consumption patterns and household characteristics for better DSM services. The proposed method uses a clustering algorithm to generate optimal customer groups for DSM and a deep learning model for training. The model can predict the possibility of DSM membership for a given household. The results demonstrate the usefulness of weekly energy consumption data and household socio-demographic information for distinguishing consumer groups and the potential for targeted DSM strategies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Xinglan Hou, Xiuping Zhong, Shuaishuai Nie, Yafei Wang, Guigang Tu, Yingrui Ma, Kunyan Liu, Chen Chen
Summary: This study explores the feasibility of utilizing a multi-level horizontal branch well heat recovery system in the Qiabuqia geothermal field. The research systematically investigates the effects of various engineering parameters on production temperature, establishes mathematical models to describe their relationships, and evaluates the economic viability of the system. The findings demonstrate the significant economic feasibility of the multi-level branch well system.
Article
Thermodynamics
Longxin Zhang, Songtao Wang, Site Hu
Summary: This investigation reveals the influence of tip leakage flow on the modern transonic rotor and finds that the increase of tip clearance size leads to a decline in rotor performance. However, an optimal tip clearance size can extend the rotor's stall margin.
Article
Thermodynamics
Kristian Gjoka, Behzad Rismanchi, Robert H. Crawford
Summary: This paper proposes a framework for assessing the performance of 5GDHC systems and demonstrates it through a case study in a university campus in Melbourne, Australia. The results show that 5GDHC systems are a cost-effective and environmentally viable solution in mild climates, and their successful implementation in Australia can create new market opportunities and potential adoption in other countries with similar climatic conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jianwei Li, Guotai Wang, Panpan Yang, Yongshuang Wen, Leian Zhang, Rujun Song, Chengwei Hou
Summary: This study proposes an orientation-adaptive electromagnetic energy harvester by introducing a rotatable bluff body, which allows for self-regulation to cater for changing wind flow direction. Experimental results show that the output power of the energy harvester can be greatly enhanced with increased rotatory inertia of the rotating bluff body, providing a promising solution for harnessing wind-induced vibration energy.