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Exergy analysis of heat exchangers in the copper–chlorine thermochemical cycle to enhance thermal effectiveness and cycle efficiency
Orhan, Mehmet Fatih Dincer, Ibrahim Rosen, Marc
Orhan, Mehmet Fatih
Dincer, Ibrahim
Rosen, Marc
Date
2011
Advisor
Type
Article
Peer-Reviewed
Published version
Peer-Reviewed
Published version
Degree
Description
Abstract
Most existing nuclear power plants in North America are typically water-cooled and operate at 250–500°C. For this temperature level, the copper–chlorine (Cu–Cl) cycle is one of the most promising cycles that can be integrated with nuclear reactors for hydrogen production by decomposing water into its constituents. In this study, we analyze the heat exchangers in the Cu–Cl thermochemical cycle so as to enhance heat transfer effectiveness and thereby improve the cycle efficiency. The thermal management options for internal and external heat transfer are studied and heat recovery opportunities are investigated and compared. Each heat exchanger in the cycle is examined individually based on the chemical/physical behavior of the process, and the most appropriate options are recommended. A thermodynamic analysis and associated parametric studies are performed for various configurations to contrast their efficiencies and effectivenesses.