This book presents selected papers from the 11th International Symposium on Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (ISHVAC 2019), with a focus on HVAC techniques for improving indoor environment quality and the energy efficiency of heating and cooling systems. Presenting inspiration for implementing more efficient and safer HVAC systems, the book is a valuable resource for academic researchers, engineers in industry, and government regulators.

This thesis makes significant advances in the design of electrolytes and interfaces in electrochemical cells that utilize reactive metals as anodes. Such cells are of contemporary interest because they offer substantially higher charge storage capacity than state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery technology. Batteries based on metallic anodes are currently considered impractical and unsafe because recharge of the anode causes physical and chemical instabilities that produce dendritic deposition of the metal leading to catastrophic failure via thermal runaway. This thesis utilizes a combination of chemical synthesis, physical & electrochemical analysis, and materials theory to investigate structure, ion transport properties, and electrochemical behaviors of hybrid electrolytes and interfacial phases designed to prevent such instabilities. In particular, it demonstrates that relatively low-modulus electrolytes composed of cross-linked networks of polymer-grafted nanoparticles stabilize electrodeposition of reactive metals by multiple processes, including screening electrode electrolyte interactions at electrochemical interfaces and by regulating ion transport in tortuous nanopores. This discovery is significant because it overturns a longstanding perception in the field of nanoparticle-polymer hybrid electrolytes that only solid electrolytes with mechanical modulus higher than that of the metal electrode are able to stabilize electrodeposition of reactive metals.

This work revolves around the hydrogen economy and energy-storage electrochemical systems. More specifically, it investigates the possibility of using magnetron sputtering for deposition of efficient thin-film anode catalysts with low noble metal content for proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEM-WEs) and unitized regenerative fuel cells (PEM-URFCs). The motivation for this research derives from the urgent need to minimize the price of such electrochemical devices should they enter the mass production. Numerous experiments were carried out, correlating the actual in-cell performance with the varying position of thin-film catalyst within the membrane electrode assembly, with the composition of high-surface support sublayer and with the chemical structure of the catalyst itself. The wide arsenal of analytical methods ranging from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy through electrochemical atomic force microscopy to photoelectron spectroscopy allowed the description of the complex phenomena behind different obtained efficiencies. Systematic optimizations led to the design of a novel PEM-WE anode thin-film iridium catalyst which performs similarly to the standard counterparts despite using just a fraction of their noble metal content. Moreover, the layer-by-layer approach resulted in the design of a Ir/TiC/Pt bi-functional anode for PEM-URFC which is able to operate in both the fuel cell and electrolyzer regime and thus helps to cut the cost of the whole conversion system even further.

This book discusses dynamic modeling, simulation, and control strategies for Photovoltaic (PV) stand-alone systems during variation of environmental conditions. Moreover, the effectiveness of the implemented Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) techniques and the employed control strategy are evaluated during variations of solar irradiance and cell temperature. The simulation results are based on the reliability of the MPPT techniques applied in extracting the maximum power from the PV system during the rapid variation of the environmental conditions. The authors review two MPPT techniques implemented in PV systems, namely the perturb and observe (P&O) MPPT Technique and the Incremental Conductance (InCond) MPPT technique. These two MPPT techniques were simulated by the MATLAB/Simulink and the results response of the PV array from voltage, current, and power are compared to the effect of solar irradiation and temperature change.

This book provides a comprehensive and contemporary overview of advances in energy and energy storage technologies. Although the coverage is varied and diverse, the book also addresses unifying patterns and trends in order to enrich readers' understanding of energy and energy storage systems, particularly hydrogen energy storage, including e.g. their morphology, porosity and material structure. Readers will also gain insights into the hydrogen storage performance landscape, based on data released by the US Department of Energy (DOE), providing a basis for understanding real-world applications. The book also discusses the superior hydrogen storage performance of solid-state materials and explores the physical and chemical properties that can potentially affect their performance.

This book provides a much-needed, up-to-date overview of unary, binary and ternary bismuth-ferrite-based systems, with a focus on their properties, synthesis methods and applications as electrochemical supercapacitors. It introduces readers to the basic structure and properties of ferrites in general, focusing on the selection criteria for ferrite materials for electrochemical energy storage applications. Along with coverage of ferrite synthesis methods, it discusses bismuth-ferrite structures in unary, binary and mixed ferrite nanostructure systems, as well as future perspectives and limitations for using ferrites as electrochemical supercapacitors. A valuable resource for beginners and advanced researchers working on similar topics, this book enables them to understand the core materials and electrochemical concepts behind bismuth-ferrite-based systems as energy storage materials.

This book presents a detailed analysis of Power-to-Gas, a promising energy storage technology. It discusses the main mechanisms involved, and presents two Power-to-Gas and carbon capture hybridizations. The book begins by providing an introduction to energy storage technologies. It then reviews a number of Power-to-Gas projects now in progress, highlighting the current barriers to commercializing the technology. Moreover, the book presents two novel Power-to-Gas hybridizations, which improve the technology's applicability in terms of efficiency, utilization of resources and profitability. Given its scope, the book will be of interest to graduate students, researchers and practitioners in the fields of engineering and energy.

This book highlights the use of one-dimensional transition metal oxides and their analogue nanomaterials for battery applications. The respective chapters present examples of one-dimensional nanomaterials with different architectures, as well as a wide range of applications, e.g. as electrode materials for batteries. The book also addresses various means of synthesizing one-dimensional nanomaterials, e.g. electrospinning, the Kirkendall effect, Ostwald ripening, heterogeneous contraction, liquid-phase preparation, the vapor deposition approach and template-assisted synthesis. In closing, the structural design, optimization and promotion of one-dimensional transition metal oxide electrode materials are discussed. The book chiefly focuses on emerging configurable designs, including core-shell architectures, hollow architectures and other intricate architectures. In turn, the applications covered reflect essential recent advances in many modern types of battery. Accordingly, the book offers an informative and appealing resource for a wide readership in various fields of chemical science, materials and engineering.

This groundbreaking book aims to show that technology currently exists to build and operate large autonomous sailing ships equipped with hydrokinetic turbines and electrolysers that could operate in high-wind ocean areas. This technology would enable seawater to be converted into storable hydrogen, thereby tapping into an inexhaustible energy reservoir sufficient for the transition to an emission-free global economy. The book is presented in two parts. Part one presents a broad look at possible solutions to the climate change challenge and provides an overview of current approaches. Part two introduces 12 specific technologies that could enable the green energy ship concept.

This book presents and facilitates the interchange of new research and development results concerned with hot topics in thermoelectric generators (TEGs) research, development and production. Topics include prospective thermoelectric materials for manufacturing TEGs operating in low-, mid-, and high temperature ranges, thermal and mechanical degradation issues in prospective thermoelectric materials and TEG modules, theoretical study of novel inorganic and organic thermoelectric materials, novel methods and apparatus for measuring performance of thermoelectric materials and TEGs, and thermoelectric power generators simulation, modeling, design and practice.This book helps researchers tackle the challenges that still remain in creating cheap and effective TEGs and presents the latest trends and technologies in development and production of advanced thermoelectric generation devices. Provides a concentration of new research and development in the field of Thermoelectric energy generation; Facilitates the interchange of new ideas and results to react effectively to the challenges of Thermoelectric generators; Explains both the advancements and challenges in TEGs.

This book presents a state-of-the-art review of recent advances in the recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries. The topics covered include: introduction to the structure of lithium-ion batteries; development of battery-powered electric vehicles; potential environmental impact of spent lithium-ion batteries; pretreatment of spent lithium-ion batteries for recycling processing; pyrometallurgical processing for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries; hydrometallurgical processing for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries; direct processing for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries; high value-added products from recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries; and effects of recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries on environmental burdens. The book provides an essential reference resource for professors, researchers, and policymakers in academia, industry, and government around the globe.

This book discusses the roles of nanostructures and nanomaterials in the development of battery materials for state-of-the-art electrochemical energy storage systems, and provides detailed insights into the fundamentals of why batteries need nanostructures and nanomaterials. It explores the advantages offered by nanostructure electrode materials, the challenges of using nanostructured materials in batteries, as well as the rational design of nanostructures and nanomaterials to achieve optimal battery performance. Further, it closely examines the latest advances in the application of nanostructures and nanomaterials for future rechargeable batteries, including high-energy and high-power lithium ion batteries, lithium metal batteries (Li-O2, Li-S, Li-Se, etc.), all-solid-state batteries, and other metal batteries (Na, Mg, Al, etc.). It is a valuable reference resource for readers interested in or involved in research on energy storage, energy materials, electrochemistry and nanotechnology.

The proliferation of electric communication and power networks have drawn wires through American landscapes like vines through untended gardens since 1844. But these wire networks are more than merely the tools and infrastructure required to send electric messages and power between distinct places; the iconic lines themselves send powerful messages. The wiry webs above our heads and the towers rhythmically striding along the horizon symbolize the ambiguous effects of widespread industrialization and the shifting values of electricity and landscape in the American mind.  In Power-Lined Daniel L. Wuebben weaves together personal narrative, historical research, cultural analysis, and social science to provide a sweeping investigation of the varied influence of overhead wires on the American landscape and the American mind. Wuebben shows that overhead wires—from Morse’s telegraph to our high-voltage grid—not only carry electricity between American places but also create electrified spaces that signify and complicate notions of technology, nature, progress, and, most recently, renewable energy infrastructure. Power-Lined exposes the subtle influences wrought by the wiring of the nation and shows that, even in this age of wireless devices, perceptions of overhead lines may be key in progressing toward a more sustainable energy future.     

This book surveys state-of-the-art research on and developments in lithium-ion batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles. It summarizes their features in terms of performance, cost, service life, management, charging facilities, and safety. Vehicle electrification is now commonly accepted as a means of reducing fossil-fuels consumption and air pollution. At present, every electric vehicle on the road is powered by a lithium-ion battery. Currently, batteries based on lithium-ion technology are ranked first in terms of performance, reliability and safety. Though other systems, e.g., metal-air, lithium-sulphur, solid state, and aluminium-ion, are now being investigated, the lithium-ion system is likely to dominate for at least the next decade - which is why several manufacturers, e.g., Toyota, Nissan and Tesla, are chiefly focusing on this technology. Providing comprehensive information on lithium-ion batteries, the book includes contributions by the world's leading experts on Li-ion batteries and vehicles.

This book presents the latest advances in thermal energy storage development at both the materials and systems level. It covers various fields of application, including domestic, industrial and transport, as well as diverse technologies, such as sensible, latent and thermochemical. The contributors introduce readers to the main performance indicators for thermal storage systems, and discuss thermal energy storage (TES) technologies that can be used to improve the efficiency of energy systems and increase the share of renewable energy sources in numerous fields of application. In addition to the latest advances, the authors discuss the development and characterization of advanced materials and systems for sensible, latent and thermochemical TES, as well as the TES market and practical applications. They also report on and assess the feasibility of uniform characterization protocols and main performance indicators, compared to previous attempts to be found in the literature. The book will help to increase awareness of thermal energy storage technologies in both the academic and industrial sectors, while also providing experts new tools to achieve a uniform approach to thermal energy storage characterization methods. It will also be of interest to all students and researchers seeking an introduction to recent innovations in TES technologies.

This book is in the field of Engineering Thermophysics. It first introduces the authors’ academic thoughts of photo-thermal energy cascade conversion in the fuel combustion. Afterward, a series of thermal radiation theories and models have been developed based on the aim of radiative energy utilization, including spectral radiation available energy theory, gas radiation model under complex combustion conditions, and calculation model of radiation available energy transfer in combustion medium. Based on simulation and experimental results, the radiative energy characteristics of different fuel combustion are introduced. This book develops the radiation theory of the combustion process from a new perspective, integrating theories, models, and experimental results. This book can be used as a reference for scientists, engineers, and graduate students engaged in energy environment, combustion, and thermal radiation.

This book presents a new topology of the non-isolated online uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system consisting of 3 components: bridgeless boost rectifier, battery charger/discharger, and an inverter. The online UPS system is considered to be the most preferable UPS due to its high level of power quality and proven reliability against all types of line disturbances and power outages. The new battery charger/discharger reduces the battery bank voltage, which improves performance and reliability, while a new control method for the inverter regulates the output voltage for both linear and nonlinear loads. The proposed USP system shows an efficiency of 94% during battery mode and 92% during the normal mode of operation.

This book contains selected papers presented during the bi-annual World Renewable Energy Network's Med Green Forum aimed at the international community as well as Mediterranean countries. This forum highlights the importance of growing renewable energy applications in two main sectors: Electricity Generation and the Sustainable Building Sector. In-depth chapters highlight the most current research and technological breakthroughs, covering a broad range of renewable energy technologies and applications in all sectors - for electricity production, heating and cooling, agricultural applications, water desalination, industrial applications and for the transport sectors.

Current developments in the renewable energy field, and the trend toward self-production and self-consumption of energy, has led to increased interest in the means of storing electrical energy; a key element of sustainable development. This book provides an in-depth view of the environmentally responsible energy solutions currently available for use in the building sector. It highlights the importance of storing electrical energy, demonstrates the many services that the storage of electrical energy can bring, and discusses the important socio-economic factors related to the emergence of smart buildings and smart grids. Finally, it presents the methodological tools needed to build a system of storage-based energy management, illustrated by concrete, pedagogic examples.

This book reviews the structure and composition of Prussian Blue materials. It presents the state-of-the-art of their application to metal-ion batteries, highlighting the benefits derived from the integration of electrochemical energy storage with clean energies. It concludes with future perspectives including prototyping and large-scale production.

This book focuses on nanocarbons (carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanoporous carbon, and carbon black) and related materials for energy conversion, including fuel cells (predominately proton exchange membrane fuel cells [PEMFC]), Li-ion batteries, and supercapacitors. Written by a group of internationally recognized researchers, it offers an in-depth review of the structure, properties, and functions of nanocarbons, and summarizes recent advances in the design, fabrication and characterization of nanocarbon-based catalysts for energy applications. As such, it is an invaluable resource for graduate students, academics and industrial scientists interested in the areas of nanocarbons, energy materials for fuel cells, batteries and supercapacitors as well as materials design, and supramolecular science.

This book discusses the latest developments of the synthesis, preparation, characterization, and applications of nano/microstructure-based materials in biomedical and energetic fields. It introduces several popular approaches to fabricating these materials, including template-assisted fabrication, electrospinning of organic/inorganic hybrid materials, biomineralization-mediated self-assembly, etc. The latest results in material evaluation for targeted applications are also presented. In particular, the book highlights the latest advances and future challenges in polymer nanodielectrics for energy storage applications. As such, it offers a valuable reference guide for scholars interested in the synthesis and evaluation of nano/microstructure-based materials, as well as their biomedical and energetic applications. It also provides essential insights for graduate students and scientists pursuing research in the broad fields of composite materials, polymers, organic/inorganic hybrid materials, nano-assembly, etc.

This book highlights the development of novel metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs). It describes the metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs) that consist of a microporous stainless steel support, nanoporous electrode composites and a thin ceramic electrolyte using the "tape casting-sintering-infiltrating" method. Further, it investigates the reaction kinetics of the fuel cells' electrodes, structure-performance relationship and degradation mechanism. By optimizing the electrode materials, preparation process for the fuel cells, and nano-micro structure of the electrode, the resulting MS-SOFCs demonstrated (1) great output power densities at low temperatures, e.g., 1.02 W cm-2 at 600 DegreesC, when operating in humidified hydrogen fuels and air oxidants; (2) excellent long-term stability, e.g., a degradation rate of 1.3% kh-1 when measured at 650 DegreesC and 0.9 A cm-2 for 1500 h. The design presented offers a promising pathway for the development of low-cost, high power-density and long-term-stable SOFCs for energy conversion.

Global experts provide an authoritative source of information on the use of electrochemical fuel cells, and in particular discuss the use of nanomaterials to enhance the performance of existing energy systems. The book covers the state of the art in the design, preparation, and engineering of nanoscale functional materials as effective catalysts for fuel cell chemistry, highlights recent progress in electrocatalysis at both fuel cell anode and cathode, and details perspectives and challenges in future research.

This book describes the stochastic and predictive control modelling of electrical systems that can meet the challenge of forecasting energy requirements under volatile conditions. The global electrical grid is expected to face significant energy and environmental challenges such as greenhouse emissions and rising energy consumption due to the electrification of heating and transport. Today, the distribution network includes energy sources with volatile demand behaviour, and intermittent renewable generation. This has made it increasingly important to understand low voltage demand behaviour and requirements for optimal energy management systems to increase energy savings, reduce peak loads, and reduce gas emissions. Electrical load forecasting is a key tool for understanding and anticipating the highly stochastic behaviour of electricity demand, and for developing optimal energy management systems. Load forecasts, especially of the probabilistic variety, can support more informed planning and management decisions, which will be essential for future low carbon distribution networks. For storage devices, forecasts can optimise the appropriate state of control for the battery. There are limited books on load forecasts for low voltage distribution networks and even fewer demonstrations of how such forecasts can be integrated into the control of storage. This book presents material in load forecasting, control algorithms, and energy saving and provides practical guidance for practitioners using two real life examples: residential networks and cranes at a port terminal.