Transient Analysis of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Air Cooler With Using IDAES Model

The supercritical CO2 (sCO2) power cycle is a promising system for meeting future electricity grid demands. Its main advantage over Brayton cycles with other working fluids is its high net efficiency. To maintain this efficiency, the compressor must operate close to the critical point of CO2 (7.32 MPa and 31 °C). Maintaining a near constant inlet temperature is crucial, posing a design and operations challenge. In this study, we simulate the air cooler in an sCO2 power plant using a dynamic model with a focus on transient analysis. This was done for a 100 MWe sCO2 power cycle molten salt application (solar and nuclear reactors). For transient analysis, step changes in ambient temperature were simulated. A parametric study was also conducted using the model in steady-state. The model was implemented using the Institute for the Design of Advanced Energy Systems (IDAES) Process Systems Engineering (PSE) framework, an open-source software package. A brief description of the software architecture is given. Model applications and its overall fit in the digital twin landscape are also discussed.

An overview to process design, simulation and sustainability evaluation of biodiesel production

The overwhelming concerns due to over exploitation of fossil resources necessitate the utilization of alternative energy resources. Biodiesel has been considered as one of the most adaptable alternative to fossil-derived diesel with similar properties and numerous environmental benefits. Although there are various approaches for biodiesel production, development of cost-effective and robust catalyst with efficient production methods and utilization of a variety of feedstock could be the optimum solution to bring down the production cost. Considering the complexity of biodiesel production processes, process design, quantitative evaluation and optimization of the biodiesel from whole systems perspectives is essential for unlocking the complexity and enhancing the system performances. Process systems engineering offers an efficient approach to design and optimize biodiesel manufacturing systems by using a variety of tools. This review reflects state-of-the-art biodiesel research in the field of process systems engineering with a particular focus on biodiesel production including process design and simulation, sustainability evaluation, optimization and supply chain management. This review also highlights the challenges and opportunities for the development of potentially sustainable and eco-friendly enzymatic biodiesel technology.