A Zero-Emission Closed-loop linear-Joule CYcle (ZECCY) engine generator
Lead Research Organisation:
Durham University
Department Name: Engineering
Abstract
Over thirty six months, this project aims to demonstrate the potential of a highly disruptive zero emission, high efficiency electricity generator concept for use in transport and power generation applications. A Zero-Emission Closed-loop linear-Joule CYcle (ZECCY) engine generator which yields only liquid water as an emission (i.e. no particulates, or gas phase emissions). As such, it is analogous with hydrogen-fuel cell technology but more lightweight, potentially more efficient and based on a well-established UK manufacturing base.
This project will demonstrate the true potential of this technology for vehicle applications by:
a. Completing the manufacture, assembly and commissioning of a concept demonstrator through the development of an existing test platform
b. Gather the evidence required to advance the project successfully by conducting a robust testing programme underpinned by rigorous simulation and performance improvement.
c. Establish the future case of ZECCY generator technology through the development of a technical and commercial roadmap to deployment.
This project will demonstrate the true potential of this technology for vehicle applications by:
a. Completing the manufacture, assembly and commissioning of a concept demonstrator through the development of an existing test platform
b. Gather the evidence required to advance the project successfully by conducting a robust testing programme underpinned by rigorous simulation and performance improvement.
c. Establish the future case of ZECCY generator technology through the development of a technical and commercial roadmap to deployment.
Planned Impact
The impact of the proposed project will come through the development of Newcastle and Sheffield University's IP in free-piston engines, ZECCY engines, linear generators and associated technologies and establishing the market, applications and the technical evidence base. Evidence of the significantly greater efficiencies compared to the current and projected state-of-the-art will open-up significant opportunities for further research and commercialisation and this will be brought forward through collaborative R&D demonstrators of the technology through H2020, APC and Innovate UK.
Organisations
Publications
Burrin D
(2021)
A combined heat and green hydrogen (CHH) generator integrated with a heat network
in Energy Conversion and Management
Chen Y
(2021)
Experimental Research on the Macroscopic and Microscopic Spray Characteristics of Diesel-PODE3-4 Blends
in Energies
Hodgson M
(2021)
The performance and efficiency of novel oxy-hydrogen-argon gas power cycles for zero emission power generation
in Energy Conversion and Management
Jia B
(2019)
Performance Analysis of a Flexi-Fuel Turbine-Combined Free-Piston Engine Generator
in Energies
Ngwaka U
(2021)
Evaluation of performance characteristics of a novel hydrogen-fuelled free-piston engine generator
in International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Ngwaka U
(2019)
The characteristics of a Linear Joule Engine Generator operating on a dry friction principle
in Applied Energy
Roy S
(2022)
Comprehensive Renewable Energy
Smallbone A
(2020)
Realization of a Novel Free-Piston Engine Generator for Hybrid-Electric Vehicle Applications
in Energy & Fuels
Description | • The investigation of closed-loop oxy-hydrogen Brayton power cycles demonstrated potential for producing electrical power with high thermal efficiency and zero exhaust gas emissions. • Development and testing of first-of-a-kind hydrogen-argon and hydrogen-helium experimental prototype system. • Numerical models and simulation studies were conducted which enable greater understanding of working fluid options and operation for the cycles. |
Exploitation Route | • The findings offer valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers in the field of sustainable power generation and emission reduction. • Further research and development could focus on optimising the performance and cost-effectiveness of closed-loop oxy-hydrogen Brayton cycles, considering different working fluids and system configurations. • Industry stakeholders, energy companies, and government agencies could utilise these findings to drive innovation in clean energy technologies and contribute to meeting sustainability targets. |
Sectors | Aerospace Defence and Marine Energy Transport |
Description | Some elements of the research outcomes has enabled a better understanding of free piston generator operation. H2CHP Ltd has been established to commercialise free piston generator technology. |
Sector | Energy |
Impact Types | Economic |