Recent research led by Ertang Liang from the School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation at Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen has unveiled a promising advancement in biomass energy generation through a modified precompression transcritical carbon dioxide (CO2) power generation cycle. This study, published in the journal Heliyon, addresses the pressing need for efficient renewable energy solutions in rural areas, particularly in Northeast China, where biomass resources are abundant.
The research highlights the potential of utilizing CO2 thermal cycles for power generation, which boast high thermal efficiency and a compact system design that avoids freezing processes typical in water-based systems. The study differentiates between two layouts of CO2 cycles: single flow and split flow. While split flow layouts offer higher efficiency, they come with increased complexity and lower heat transfer capacity per unit area. In contrast, the modified precompression transcritical CO2 cycle proposed by Liang and his team simplifies the structure, making it more suitable for small power plants in cold regions.
Through energy analysis, the researchers calculated the thermal efficiencies of both the traditional and modified precompression cycles. They found that the modified cycle achieved an efficiency of 44.86% at a lower pressure ratio of the main compressor, compared to 43.55% for the traditional cycle at a higher pressure ratio. This improvement in efficiency at a lower pressure ratio could lead to significant cost savings and enhanced performance for biomass power generation systems.
“This modified precompression cycle not only improves efficiency but also aligns with the operational requirements of small power plants in cold climates,” said Liang. The implications of this research extend beyond just energy generation; it opens up commercial opportunities for developing biomass power generation equipment tailored to rural areas, which could play a crucial role in achieving carbon neutrality targets.
As the energy sector increasingly shifts towards sustainable solutions, innovations like Liang’s modified CO2 power generation cycle could be instrumental in harnessing local biomass resources effectively. This research not only contributes to the field of renewable energy but also underscores the importance of adapting technology to meet the unique needs of specific regions, particularly in rural settings where traditional energy sources may be less accessible. The findings from this study published in Heliyon present a pathway for enhancing energy independence and sustainability in areas rich in biomass resources.
