Thermodynamic optimization of power plants

Thermodynamic Optimization of Power Plants aims to establish and illustrate comparative multi-criteria optimization of various models and configurations of power plants. It intends to show what optimization objectives one may define on the basis of the thermodynamic laws, and how they can be applied for optimization of heat engines. By examination of a variety of power plant models, the operational regimes at maximum work output, maximum thermal efficiency and minimum entropy generation have been examined and compared. The discussions covered in this book include: • Explanation of the concept of entropy and its generation, • Relationship between entropy generation and exergy destruction, • Review of Sadi Carnot’s principles, and explaining under what conditions Carnot cycle can be considered as the most efficient engine, • Stirling and Ericsson cycles operating with nonideal gas, • Examination of performance of different endoreversible power plants at maximum work and minimum entropy generation, • Multi-objective optimization of conventional gas turbine engines, • Thermodynamic performance of a combined gas turbine and solid oxide fuel cell power cycle. This is a promising supplementary book for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of thermodynamics, energy systems, and thermal design. It can be also used by engineers and researchers working in the field of power plant technology.