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Performance analysis and multi-objective optimization of a combined seawater desalination and power system based on high-temperature PEMFC and externally fired gas turbine

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  • Cai, Benan
  • Wang, Rong
  • Gao, Ruihang
  • Che, Xunjian
  • Zhang, Zhongnong
  • Wang, Haijun
  • Cai, Weihua

Abstract

This work proposes a novel integrated system capable of concurrent power and fresh water generation, consisting of the on-site hydrogen production subsystem, high-temperature PEMFC, externally fired gas turbine cycle and multi-stage spray flash desalination subsystem. Mathematical models are developed to assess the system performance. The proposed hybrid system undergoes thorough energy, exergy, economic and environment analyses. A detailed sensitivity analysis is conducted to explore the influence of key operating parameters, including current density, gasification temperature, O2 stoichiometry, cooling water temperature etc., on the system performance. In addition, multi-objective optimization is carried out using the genetic algorithm method. The findings suggest an O2 stoichiometry of 3.4 for optimal electrical efficiency. A current density of 10500 A/m2 is suggested to achieve the highest system output power. Given the electrical output and net present value, a compression ratio of 5.5 is favorable. Largest exergy destruction is in the gasifier and PEMFC. The electricity price exhibits the most significant effect on the net present value. The optimal electrical efficiency, gained output ratio, net present value are 20.07 %, 0.75 and $1605566, respectively.

Suggested Citation

  • Cai, Benan & Wang, Rong & Gao, Ruihang & Che, Xunjian & Zhang, Zhongnong & Wang, Haijun & Cai, Weihua, 2025. "Performance analysis and multi-objective optimization of a combined seawater desalination and power system based on high-temperature PEMFC and externally fired gas turbine," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 321(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:321:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225010497
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.135407
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