Maximizing Efficiency in Two-step Solar-thermochemical Fuel Production

Journal Article · Fri May 01 00:00:00 EDT 2015 · Energy Procedia

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egypro.2015.03.141· OSTI ID:1426892

Ermanoski, I. ^[1]

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1. Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)

Widespread solar fuel production depends on its economic viability, largely driven by the solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency. In this paper, the material and energy requirements in two-step solar-thermochemical cycles are considered.The need for advanced redox active materials is demonstrated, by considering the oxide mass flow requirements at a large scale. Two approaches are also identified for maximizing the efficiency: optimizing reaction temperatures, and minimizing the pressure in the thermal reduction step by staged thermal reduction. The results show that each approach individually, and especially the two in conjunction, result in significant efficiency gains.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Sustainable Transportation Office. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technologies Office; USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-94AL85000
• OSTI ID: 1426892
• Report Number(s): SAND2014-17632J; 537459
• Journal Information: Energy Procedia, Vol. 69, Issue C; ISSN 1876-6102
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
Hydrogen
thermochemical
solar fuels
carbon dioxide