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Selection of working fluid for an organic Rankine cycle coupled to a salt-gradient solar pond by direct-contact heat exchange

Journal Article · · J. Sol. Energy Eng.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.3266319· OSTI ID:6292998

An analysis was conducted of power production by an organic Rankine cycle engine coupled to a solar pond with direct-contact heat exchange. Use of a direct-contact boiler reduced the projected plant cost by 25 percent. The choice of a working fluid affects plant efficiency, turbine size, and working fluid losses. Pentane was shown to be the working fluid best suited to this application.

Research Organization:
Solar Energy Research Institute, Golden, CO
OSTI ID:
6292998
Journal Information:
J. Sol. Energy Eng.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Sol. Energy Eng.; (United States) Vol. 104:4; ISSN JSEED
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English