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Interpretation of Entropy Calculations in Energy Conversion Systems

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  • Yousef Haseli

    (Clean Energy and Fuel Lab, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA)

Abstract

Often, second law-based studies present merely entropy calculations without demonstrating how and whether such calculations may be beneficial. Entropy generation is commonly viewed as lost work or sometimes a source of thermodynamic losses. Recent literature reveals that minimizing the irreversibility of a heat engine may correspond to maximizing thermal efficiency subject to certain design constraints. The objective of this article is to show how entropy calculations need to be interpreted in thermal processes, specifically, where heat-to-work conversion is not a primary goal. We will study four exemplary energy conversion processes: (1) a biomass torrefaction process where torrefied solid fuel is produced by first drying and then torrefying raw feedstock, (2) a cryogenic air separation system that splits ambient air into oxygen and nitrogen while consuming electrical energy, (3) a cogeneration process whose desirable outcome is to produce both electrical and thermal energy, and (4) a thermochemical hydrogen production system. These systems are thermodynamically analyzed by applying the first and second laws. In each case, the relation between the total entropy production and the performance indicator is examined, and the conditions at which minimization of irreversibility leads to improved performance are identified. The discussion and analyses presented here are expected to provide clear guidelines on the correct application of entropy-based analyses and accurate interpretation of entropy calculations.

Suggested Citation

  • Yousef Haseli, 2021. "Interpretation of Entropy Calculations in Energy Conversion Systems," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(21), pages 1-14, October.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:14:y:2021:i:21:p:7022-:d:665481
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Al-Zareer, Maan & Dincer, Ibrahim & Rosen, Marc A., 2017. "Performance analysis of a supercritical water-cooled nuclear reactor integrated with a combined cycle, a Cu-Cl thermochemical cycle and a hydrogen compression system," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 195(C), pages 646-658.
    2. Park, Chansaem & Zahid, Umer & Lee, Sangho & Han, Chonghun, 2015. "Effect of process operating conditions in the biomass torrefaction: A simulation study using one-dimensional reactor and process model," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 79(C), pages 127-139.
    3. Beiron, Johanna & Montañés, Rubén M. & Normann, Fredrik & Johnsson, Filip, 2020. "Flexible operation of a combined cycle cogeneration plant – A techno-economic assessment," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 278(C).
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    1. Lin, Xiaolong & Liu, Yinhe & Song, Huchao & Liu, Yugang, 2023. "System design for 700 °C power plants: Integration scheme and performance evaluation," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 267(C).
    2. Murtada A. Elhaj & Syed A. Imtiaz & Greg F. Naterer & Sohrab Zendehboudi, 2023. "Entropy Generation Minimization of Two-Phase Flow Irreversibilities in Hydrocarbon Reservoirs," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(10), pages 1-20, May.

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