Energy Conversion: Devices, Systems and Efficiencies

This course will introduce students to the thermodynamics of conventional and renewable energy conversion processes such as vapour/gas power plants, electrochemical/fuel cells, and heat pumps. Thermodynamics will be applied to evaluate the efficiency and performance of energy conversion processes. In addition, devices and components used for energy conversion and storage will be discussed.

The course includes the following lecturing elements:

• A review of basic thermodynamics, including 1st and 2nd law, energy, entropy, and exergy balances

• Ideal and non-ideal vapour and gas power cycles

• Refrigeration/heat pump cycles

• Carbon capture and conversion

• Electrolysis and fuel cells

• Exergy analysis of devices and processes

• Economic evaluation of energy conversion processes