This book presents a range of nanocatalysts, together with their primary environmental applications and use in chemical production processes. In addition, it describes the nanomaterials used for catalysts and details their performance. The book introduces readers to the fundamentals and applications of nanocatalysis, synthesis, characterization, modification and application. Further topics include: landfill organic pollutant photodegradation; magnetic photocatalysis; synergistic effects on hydrogenated TiO2; and photoinduced fusion of gold-semiconductor nanoparticles. A detailed explanation of the chemistry of nanostructures and the ability to control materials at the nano-scale rounds out the coverage. Given the central importance of research in nanotechnology and nanoscience for the development of new catalysts, the book offers a valuable source of information for researchers and academics alike. It will also benefit industrial engineers and production managers who wish to understand the environmental impact of nanocatalysts.

This book focuses on providing an overview of all our available natural resources, considering the sustainability and potential for power generation of each. Energy efficiency prospects of each natural resource are examined in the context of society's key energy needs- Heating/cooling, Electric Power, Transportation and Industrial Production. Geography, climate and demographics are all discussed as key vectors impacting the comparative opportunities for self-sustenance around the globe. The authors provide in-depth coverage of renewable energy upscale and energy efficiency improvements in industry and society within a historical context, including a keen look at the variable effectiveness of different policy tools that have been used to support the transition away from unsustainable resource use. Finally, suggestions for more sustainable futures are provided, from improved policy measures, to new technological horizons in areas from offshore wind and marine energy to biogas and energy storage.

This reference is designed for scientists and engineers in the field, and also suitable for students of semiconductor physics, materials science and solar technology. It provides an understanding of the fundamental problems underlying the relationship between physics, materials science and technology aspects of solar cell development. It bridges the gap between materials science and device design for solar cells.

Because society depends greatly on electric energy, power system control and protection focuses on ensuring a secure and reliable supply of power. To operate the electric systems in safe mode, the power system component should be equipped with intelligent controllers. The Handbook of Research on Smart Power System Operation and Control is a collection of innovative research on the theoretical and practical developments in smart power system operation and control that takes into account both smart grid and micro-grid systems. While highlighting topics including cybersecurity, smart grid, and wide area monitoring, this book is ideally designed for researchers, students, and industry professionals.

As part of the effort to increase the contribution of solar cells (photovoltaics) to our energy mix, this book addresses three main areas: making existing technology cheaper, promoting advanced technologies based on new architectural designs, and developing new materials to serve as light absorbers. Leading scientists throughout the world create a fundamental platform for knowledge sharing that combines the physics, materials, and device architectures of high-efficiency solar cells. While providing a comprehensive introduction to the field, the book highlights directions for further research, and is intended to stimulate readers' interest in the development of novel materials and technologies for solar energy applications.

This book offers a detailed examination of the latest work on the potential of polarized fuel to realize the vision of energy production by nuclear fusion. It brings together contributions from nuclear physicists and fusion physicists with the aims of fostering exchange of information between the two communities, describing the current status in the field, and examining new ideas and projects under development. It is evident that polarized fuel can offer huge improvements for the first generation of fusion reactors and open new technological possibilities for future generations, including neutron lean reactors, which could be the most popular and sustainable energy production option to avoid environmental problems. Nevertheless, many questions must be resolved before polarized fuel can be used for energy production in the different reactor types. Readers will find this book to be a stimulating source of information on the key issues. It is based on contributions from leading scientists delivered at the meetings "Nuclear Fusion with Polarized Nucleons" (Trento, November 2013) and "PolFusion" (Ferrara, July 2015).

The world is witnessing a rapid growth in wind and other renewable based electricity generation due to environmental concerns associated with electricity generation from the conventional sources. Wind power behaves quite differently than conventional electric power generating units due to its intermittent and diffuse nature. System planners and operators face the variability and uncertainty of wind power availability, and therefore, encounter considerable challenges in making decisions to maintain the adequacy and security of wind integrated power systems. This volume intends to bring out the original research work of researchers from academia and industry in understanding, quantifying and managing the risks associated with the uncertainty in wind variability in order to plan and operate a modern power system integrated with a significant proportion of wind power generation with an acceptable level of reliability. Accurate modeling of wind power variability and proper incorporation of the models in reliability and risk evaluation is very important for the planning and operation of electric power systems, and will play a crucial role in defining the requirement of various types of resources and services, such as storage and ancillary services in power systems."

This book presents a case study on a new approach for the optimum design of rooftop, grid-connected photovoltaic-system installation. The study includes two scenarios using different brands of commercially available PV modules and inverters. It investigates and compares several different rooftop grid-connected PV-system configurations taking into account PV modules and inverter specifications. The book also discusses the detailed dynamic MATLAB/Simulink model of the proposed rooftop grid-connected PV system, and uses this model to estimate the energy production capabilities, cost of energy (COE), simple payback time (SPBT) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for each configuration. The book then presents a comprehensive small signal MATLAB/Simulink model for the DC-DC converter operated under continuous conduction mode (CCM). First, the buck converter is modeled using state-space average model and dynamic equations, depicting the converter, are derived. Then a detailed MATLAB/Simulink model utilizing SimElectronics (R) Toolbox is developed. Lastly, the robustness of the converter model is verified against input voltage variations and step load changes.

This book describes how a model for optimizing the energy supply system in Germany can be implemented. It focuses on the open energy modeling framework (Oemof) program for modeling energy supply systems. The individual elements of Oemof are described, as well as the model's structure. The technical components of Oemof are subsequently demonstrated in mathematical calculations, along with sufficient Python code to begin basic modeling. The book will appeal to anyone with an interest in optimization models for energy supply systems, or in the mathematical description of the technical components of such systems in practical implementation, using a real example, Oemof. Thermodynamic descriptions of combustion are provided, so that readers can focus on modeling aspects. Researchers and practitioners will also find the book useful, as it expands on their knowledge of the technical components of energy supply systems, supported with detailed mathematical calculations.

This text integrates a wide range of research and tidal resource theory and data to present a detailed analysis of the physics and oceanography of tidal stream power devices together with a world wide resource analysis. Clearly structured throughout the book is divided into two distinct parts.

Part One provides the theoretical background to the subject and deals with the historical development of the harmonic method for the synthesis of tidal currents; the principles of fluid and tidal flow and the principles of device ducts, turbines and electrical systems. A review and analysis of more than forty tidal stream power proposals is also discussed.

Part Two provides a comprehensive overview of current practice. The economic modelling of tidal stream power installations is covered with more than three hundred current meter records from around the world used to analyse the potential and cost of tidal stream power on a global basis.

Hallmark Features: reviews the tidal resources around the worldcomplete analysis of tidal stream power systemsincludes historical information on tidal science and biographical information on major figuresconcentrates on engineering physical geography rather than engineering specificsincludes a website with a wide range of computer models, data and simulations

The thesis has critically examined, both theoretically and experimentally, a novel tri-generation system concept - with encouraging system performance demonstrated. The thesis establishes the significant potential of the novel tri-generation system in providing effective built environment decarbonisation through decentralised generation; strengthening the case for a future hydrogen economy. In response to the critical need to decarbonise the built environment, alternative methods for more effective energy utilisation need to be explored including tri-generation systems. The thesis presents the design, development and testing of a novel proof-of-concept tri-generation system based on solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and liquid desiccant air conditioning technology to provide electricity, heating and cooling to building applications. No previous work has been reported on such a system. The theme of the work sits within the topics of low-carbon and sustainable energy technologies, building services and low carbon building applications.

Energy is directly related to the most critical economic and social issues which affect sustainable development such as mobility, food production, environmental quality, regional and global security issues. Two-thirds of the new demand will come from developing nations, with China accounting for 30%. Without adequate attention to the critical importance of energy to all these aspects, the global, social, economic and environmental goals of sustainability cannot be achieved. Indeed the magnitude of change needed is immense, fundamental and directly related to the energy produced and consumed nationally and internationally. Today, it is estimated that more than two billion people worldwide lack access to modern energy resources. Distributed Renewable Energies for Off-Grid Communities provides various options and case studies related to the potential of renewable energies along with their environmental, economic and social dimensions.
Case studies provide you with solutions to for future decentralized energy supply Expanded coverage over previous work in the field to include coverage of rural and urban communities Provides new solutions for future decentralized energy supply

In this book, leading international experts explore the emerging concept of the zero energy mass custom home (ZEMCH) - designed to meet the need for social, economic, and environmental sustainability - and provide all of the knowledge required for the delivery of zero energy mass customized housing and community developments in developed and developing countries. The coverage is wide ranging, progressing from explanation of the meaning of sustainable development to discussion of challenges and trends in mass housing, the advantages and disadvantages of prefabricated methods of construction, and the concepts of mass customization, mass personalization, and inclusive design. A chapter on energy use will aid the reader in designing and retrofitting housing to reduce energy demand and/or improve energy end-use efficiency. Passive design strategies and active technologies (especially solar) are thoroughly reviewed. Application of the ZEMCH construction criteria to new buildings and refurbishment of old houses is explained and the methods and value of building performance simulation, analyzed. The concluding chapter presents examples of ZEMCH projects from around the world, with discussion of marketing strategy, design, quality assurance, and delivery challenges. The book will be invaluable as a training/teaching tool for both students and industry partners.

This book is a systematic compilation of the most recent body of knowledge in the rapidly developing research area of greenhouse gas interaction with clay systems. Unexpected results of the most recent studies - such as unusually high sorption capacity and sorption hysteresis of swelling clays -stimulated theoretical activity in this fascinating field. Classical molecular dynamics (MD) explains swelling caused by intercalation of water molecules and to a certain degree of CO2 molecules in clay interlayer. However, unusual frequency shifts in the transient infrared fingerprints of the intercalated molecules and the following accelerated carbonation can be tackled only via quantum mechanical modeling. This book provides a streamlined (from simple to complex) guide to the most advanced research efforts in this field.

The book examines the future deployment of renewable power from a normative point of view. It identifies properties characterizing the cost-optimal transition towards a renewable power system and analyzes the key drivers behind this transition. Among those drivers, particular attention is paid to technological cost reductions and the implications of uncertainty. From a methodological perspective, the main contributions of this book relate to the field of endogenous learning and uncertainty in optimizing energy system models. The primary objective here is closing the gap between the strand of literature covering renewable potential analyses on the one side and energy system modeling with endogenous technological change on the other side. The models applied in this book demonstrate that fundamental changes must occur to transform today's power sector into a more sustainable one over the course of this century. Apart from its methodological contributions, this work is also intended to provide practically relevant insights regarding the long-term competitiveness of renewable power generation.

The book analyzes energy technologies, business models and policies to promote sustainable development. It proposes a set of recommendations for further activities and networking on access to energy and renewable energies and promotes an integrated approach to sustainable resource management. The book discusses access to energy, as a precondition for socio-economic progress. It depicts the global dimension of the challenge in terms of access to electricity and other forms of energy in developing countries. The three main interlinked topics related to energy and sustainable growth are separately discussed: appropriate technologies for modern energy services, business models for the development of new energy markets, and policies to support new energy systems. The description of activities and programmes of some public and private Italian stakeholders is also included.

The trade of global bioenergy commodities, such as ethanol, biodiesel and wood pellets has been growing exponentially in the past decade, and have by 2013 reached true "commodity" volumes, i.e. tens of millions of tonnes traded each year, and billions (both in US$/ ) of annual turnover.

IEA Bioenergy Task 40 was founded in 2004 and is now in its 4th triennium. For the past 9 years, task 40 has monitored the developments in international bioenergy trade, including the organization of about 20 workshops on trade-related topics, and the publication of over 100 studies, country reports, newsletters, etc. The amount of material produced over the years and insights gained in how biomass markets and international trade of biomass and biofuels has developed is impressive. Besides that the group has produced overviews and insights, also a large amount of practical experience has been brought together in what works and what doesn't. Last but not least, based on all this, there are clear(er) views on how to proceed to build working sustainable international biomass markets in the future. This book compiles those lessons and insights into an easily accessible book publication."""

This book presents the methodology and mathematical models for dual-fuel coal-gas power plants in two basic configurations: systems coupled in parallel and in series. Dual-fuel gas and steam systems, especially parallel systems, have great potential for modernizing existing combined heat and power (CHP) plants. This book presents calculations using a novel methodology applied to systems in continuous time and analyzes the impact of the investment profitability of the EU ETS (European Union Emissions Trading Scheme) derogation mechanism, which encourages enterprises to modernize existing generation units. It also includes a detailed case study of a coal power plant modernized by repowering with a gas turbine. The book is intended for researchers, market analysts, decision makers, power engineers and students.

Volume II presents the latest advances in catalytic hydrodeoxygenation and other transformations of some cellulosic platform chemicals to high value-added products. It presents the theoretical evaluation of the energetics and catalytic species involved in potential pathways of catalyzed carbohydrate conversion, pathways leading to the formation of humin-based by-products, and thermal pathways in deriving chemicals from lignin pyrolysis and hydrodeoxygenation. Catalytic gasification of biomass under extreme thermal conditions as an extension of pyrolysis is also discussed. Marcel Schlaf, PhD, is a Professor at the Department of Chemistry, University of Guelph, Canada. Z. Conrad Zhang, PhD, is a Professor at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China.

This book describes the implementation of green IT in various human and industrial domains. Consisting of four sections: "Development and Optimization of Green IT", "Modelling and Experiments with Green IT Systems", "Industry and Transport Green IT Systems", "Social, Educational and Business Aspects of Green IT", it presents results in two areas - the green components, networks, cloud and IoT systems and infrastructures; and the industry, business, social and education domains. It discusses hot topics such as programmable embedded and mobile systems, sustainable software and data centers, Internet servicing and cyber social computing, assurance cases and lightweight cryptography in context of green IT. Intended for university students, lecturers and researchers who are interested in power saving and sustainable computing, the book also appeals to engineers and managers of companies that develop and implement energy efficient IT applications.

Renewable energy systems are playing an important role in the current discourse on energy security and sustainability. Scientific, engineering and economic solutions are adopted, and their is a constant effort to understand mechanisms and options to allow a faster penetration of renewable systems in the current energy mix and energy market.
Readers of this book will have access to information, engineering design and economic solutions for harvesting local and regional energy potential by means of solar, wind, hydro resources.
It will enable graduate students, researchers, promoters of sustainable energy technologies, consulting engineering experts, knowledgeable public to understand the solutions, methods, techniques suitable for different phases of design and implementation of a large selection of renewable energy technologies, and to identify their sustainability in application and policy."