UPTHERM Innovative high efficiency phase change fluid based heat engine
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PRODUCT PERFORMANCES → Energy conversion efficiency is limited by various factors, mainly for small scale products (< 100 kW).
THE NEED
improving energy conversion efficiency.
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HIGH TEMPERATURE FOR HEAT ENGINE FEEDSTOCK → Heat engines have to be fed using high temperature heat in order to reach satisfactory efficiencies. But, this reduces the application possibilities, mainly in the use of sustainable energy sources such as solar and geothermal energy, biomass and waste heat.
THE NEED
discovering methodologies to exploit low temperature feedstock
(> 50°C).
Problems and needs
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COST COMPETITION → in developing novel technologies, respecting cost issues is crucial, mainly in a so competitive sector as energy market.
THE NEED:
converting energy at lower cost.
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ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE → fossil fuel energy conversion produces pollutants and GHGs (Green House Gases) emissions. The growing international institutions feeling on environmental preservation is leading to more stringent normative on pollutants emissions in energy production.
THE NEED:
developing eco-friendly technologies.