Marie Curie
Actions
MSCA-IF-2016 - Individual Fellowships
Call: H2020-MSCA-IF-2016
Project Work Plan
WP 1. Conceptual design - [Description of Work]
Work Package (WP) 1 will develop a conceptual design for the PV-TE-MCHP system. Based on the proposed targets relating to the new PV-TE-MCHP and the results developed from the previous studies, sketch drawings of the system components and the integrated unit will be generated. A list of components will be proposed, each of which will be preliminary evaluated in terms of its likely geometrical sizes and material types, as well as the potential performance data likely to be achieved. Further, the research questions and items (e.g. size, efficiency, power outputs, thermal-to-power conversion etc) will be identified, thus formulating the foundation for the follow-on WP tasks.
WP 2. Computer modelling using the nodal analysis method and the system characterization/optimization - [Description of Work]
Based on the outcomes of the WP1, this WP will develop a nodal analysis based computer model and make use of the model to predict the power generation of the PV-TE-MCHP and optimize its size and geometrical shape. Based on the coupled nonlinear equations that correlate the nodal temperature with output power of the PV and TE, and heat output from the MCHP, this model will be structured into four parts: (1) PV sub-model addressing solar to thermal/power conversion; (2) heat pipe heat transfer sub-model; (3) TE sub-model addressing the thermal-to-power conversion; and (4) heat sink sub-model addressing heat transfer from the TE to cooling fluid (air or water). By considering the side heat loss and varying contact heat resistance across the two interfaces, the initial node temperature values will be pre-established. By entering these temperature values and other operational parametric data into the models, and applying the energy-balance principle, a dedicated inter-connection algorithm will be established to link up these sub-models. As such, the models will be integrated to enable (1) simulation of heat transfer across different parts of the system; (2) prediction of the actual nodal temperature distribution at different system interfaces; (3) computation of solar-to-electricity conversion rate for the PV part and thermal-to-electricity conversion rate for the TE part, and (4) determination of appropriate TE cooling measures (i.e., water or air flow rate, temperature, and channel geometry/size). By entering different operational and geometrical parameters recommended by WP1, the model will be activated to generate various sets of results. Analysis of the results will lead to: (1) determination of the system’s optimal geometrical size; (2) determination of the system’s performance data; (3) identification of potential increase in electricity production and thermal conversion of the new system relative to the existing PV-TE systems.
WP 3. Experimental testing and computer model validation/refinement - [Description of Work]
This WP will examine whether or not the modelling-derived performance data can be realized and suggest associated follow-on measures. Based on the results obtained from WPs 1&2, a PV-TE-MCHP prototype of 1kW rated power output (referred to ASTM E2848 – 13 standard – http://www.astm.org/Standards/E2848.htm) will be designed and constructed. The system will then be tested at the Energy Technology Laboratory at UHULL by using the established solar PV/T test rig. During the testing, various parameters including solar radiation, ambient temperature, wind speed, water temperature & flow-rate, power output of the PV and TE, and the temperature of the evaporator and condenser of the MCHP et al, will be monitored and recorded. All the measurement data will be logged into a computer, and used to assess the performance of the new PV-TE-MCHP under various operational conditions, in particular, to determine its electrical output. The power generation performance will be verified or modified based on the comparison between the computer prediction and experiment, thus giving the actual figures for the system’s solar electrical and thermal efficiencies, as well as the thermal-to-electrical conversion rate by the TE. On this basis, a verified/modified computer simulation model will be established.
WP 4. Economic and environmental performance analysis - [Description of Work]
This WP will examine the cost target and other social-economic measures relating to the new PV-TE-MCHP. This will involve (1) collection of the energy, economic, environmental and life-cycle data relating to the new PV-TE-MCHP and existing PV-TE systems, by using the EnergyPlus and LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) methodology, in line with the ISO 14040/44 standards (http://www.avnir.org/EN/Standards-and-guides-133.html), and (2) evaluation of the economic and environmental impact of the new PV-TE-MCHP to Europe, by taking a parallel comparison of the performance data for the new PV-TE-MCHP and existing PV-TE systems. The electrical output and thermal performance of the new system will be estimated according to the regional solar radiation profiles across Europe and the system’s electrical and thermal performance data. The new system’s capital cost, annual running cost and costs per kWh electrical output in different European regions will be calculated. The results will also be compared with existing PV-TE systems, and the differences in capital cost and also savings in operational cost will be calculated taking into account the forecast inflation and discount rates and energy prices in the near and medium term. The estimated payback period of the new system relative to existing systems will be obtained. The environmental benefit of the system will be examined in terms of the reduced CO2 emission.
WP 5. Project management and researcher career training - [Description of Work]
This WP will involve the following tasks: (1) planning and management of research activities; (2) organisation of the researcher’s training and secondment activities; (3) administrative and financial coordination; and (4) project progress assessment and risk management.
WP 6. Dissemination and exploitation - [Description of Work]
This work package is concerned with dissemination, communication, exploitation, outreach and public engagement issues relating to the proposed project. Here is a summary of the tasks: (1) public-awareness activities, including development of project logo, website, newsletter, videos etc, organisation and participation in public showcase, social networks, press, EU researchers’ evening event, and youth teaching; (2) results-informing activities, including workshop, paper publication, conference attendance, and professional connection; and (3) exploitation activities, including IPR and knowledge protection, as well as industrial engagement.