A one-dimensional finite element computer model to simulate the performance of salinity gradient solar ponds

Conference · Fri Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1982 · Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States)

OSTI ID:5330634

Panahi, Z; Batty, J C; Riley, J P

A one-dimensional mathematical model which simulates the dynamic performance of stratified solar saline ponds is described. The model simulates the upper convective zone, the middle non-convective zone, and the lower convective zone. In addition to the energy flux, the model simulates the varying brine densities as a function of temperature and salt concentration, and thus is able to examine various pond stability criteria. On the basis of model operational studies, the following results are presented: a study of overall pond efficiency in terms of the upper convective layer, an optimization study of the thickness of the non-convective zone in terms of net energy transmission to the lower convective zone, and an investigation of the heat storage efficiency and of the overall pond efficiency as a function of pond loading rate for a particular depth of storage zone.

• Research Organization: Univ. of Nevada, System Desert Research Institute Energy Systems Ctr., Boulder City, NV
• OSTI ID: 5330634
• Report Number(s): CONF-821101-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States) Journal Volume: 82-WA/SOL-24
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
BRINES
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
CONVECTION
DEPTH
DIMENSIONS
DYNAMICS
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY STORAGE
EQUIPMENT
FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
HEAT STORAGE
LOADING
MATERIALS HANDLING
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
MECHANICS
NUMERICAL SOLUTION
ONE-DIMENSIONAL CALCULATIONS
OPTIMIZATION
PERFORMANCE
PONDS
SALINITY GRADIENTS
SIMULATION
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR PONDS
STABILITY
STORAGE
SURFACE WATERS
THICKNESS