Power Generation Technologies for Low-Temperature and Distributed Heat

Power Generation Technologies for Low-Temperature and Distributed Heat presents a systematic and detailed analysis of a wide range of power generation systems for low-temperature (lower than 700-800°C) and distributed heat recovery applications. Each technology presented is reviewed by a well-known specialist to provide the reader with an accurate, insightful and up-to-date understanding of the latest research and knowledge in the field. Technologies are introduced before the fundamental concepts and theoretical technical and economic aspects are discussed, as well as the practical performance expectations. Cutting-edge technical progress, key applications, markets, as well as emerging and future trends are also provided, presenting a multifaceted and complete view of the most suitable technologies.

A chapter on various options for thermal and electrical energy storage is also included with practical examples, making this a valuable resource for engineers, researchers, policymakers and engineering students in the fields of thermal energy, distributed power generation systems and renewable and clean energy technology systems.

• Presents a wide range of power generation technologies based on thermomechanical cycles, membrane technology, thermochemical, thermoelectric, photoelectric and electrochemical effects
• Explains the fundamental concepts and underlying operation principles in each case, and provides theoretical performance expectations and practical technical and economic characteristics
• Reviews the cutting-edge technical progress, key applications, markets, emerging and future trends, and includes practical examples of all technologies
• Details advantages and disadvantages of each technology to allow the reader to make informed decisions of their own for different applications

Professor Christos N. Markides is Professor of Clean Energy Technologies and Head of the Clean Energy Process (CEP) Laboratory in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London. He also leads the Department’s Energy Research Theme, and the cross-faculty Energy Infrastructure Network. His current research interests focus primarily on the application of fundamental principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer to innovative renewable energy technologies, high-performance components, devices and systems for energy (heat, power, cooling) recovery, conversion, integration and storage, with an emphasis on the efficient and cost-effective utilisation of low-temperature (solar or waste) heat. He has written more than 600 scientific articles in these areas, including sole-author and review articles, that have been published in relevant journals or presented at international conferences.

Dr. Kai Wang is a Research Professor at Zhejiang University. His research interests focus on high-performance energy technologies, components and systems for liquid-hydrogen production, storage and refuelling, heat-to-power conversion, co-/trigeneration systems and solar thermal technologies. He is the recipient of the Sadi Carnot Award from the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), one of the IIR Scientific Awards for young researchers working on thermodynamics.