Thermodynamic Modelling, Technical and Operational Issues of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Power Generation Cycles for Industrial Applications: A Literature Review

Abstract

Future electricity production systems will be able to harness the power of supercritical carbon dioxide (S-CO<sub>2</sub>) as it moves through thermal cycles. It serves the same goal as sources of energy such as fossil fuels, nuclear power, solar power, and the recovery of waste heat (or surplus heat from industrial processes). When the heat source temperature is between 350°C and 800°C, CO<sub>2</sub> as a working fluid exhibits excellent thermal efficiency. Its novel technological benefits over conventional steam Rankine cycles, such as the use of small turbo gear and compact heat exchangers, have captured the attention of scientists. It has excellent operational flexibility and may induce significantly cheaper energy costs. Aligned with these goals, this paper presents a panoramic work, exploring the current state of the art of S-CO<sub>2</sub> power generation, with a particular emphasis on the technical and operational perplexities. After providing a comprehensive overview of the thermodynamic principles that underpin this study, the foundation is established for an engaging discourse on the continuous research and development of supercritical carbon dioxide (S-CO<sub>2</sub>) cycles in power generation. Upon delving into the thermodynamic facets of CO<sub>2</sub> that propel this investigation, the spotlight is cast upon dissecting the existing state of research and development of S-CO<sub>2</sub> cycles in power generation before transitioning into encapsulating the principal domains of application and noteworthy thermodynamic modelling inquiries of S-CO<sub>2</sub> cycles. The present advancements and hurdles within the primary application areas are succinctly summarized, while future research trends are identified.