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Thermodynamic analysis and life cycle assessment of three hydrogen-based polygeneration systems for co-producing power and freshwater

Author

Listed:
  • Gao, Ruihang
  • Cai, Benan
  • Guo, Zaimin
  • Yang, Dehua
  • Che, Xunjian
  • Wang, Haijun
  • Cai, Weihua

Abstract

In response to the global demand for improved energy efficiency and freshwater production, integrated fuel cell systems capable of co-generating power and fresh water have gained significant attention. This study introduces a novel polygeneration system incorporating three hydrogen production routes: methanol reforming, methane reforming, and biomass gasification. A comprehensive quadruple analysis—covering energy, exergy, economic, and exergoenvironmental dimensions—was applied to each configuration. Advanced exergy methods identified the sources and types of exergy destruction in key units, while life cycle assessment (LCA) evaluated environmental impacts across stages and proposed mitigation measures. Results show that the methane reforming system achieved the highest energy efficiency (88.2 %) under varied conditions, though its total investment cost surpassed those of methanol and biomass systems by 25.9 $/h and 28.47 $/h, respectively. The gasifier, proton exchange membrane fuel cell, and combustor were the main sources of exergy destruction, with a notable avoidable portion in the fuel cell. LCA results revealed exergy-based ecological costs during construction of 390.61 Pt/h (methanol), 335.06 Pt/h (methane), and 519.41 Pt/h (biomass). This study provides critical data and insights to advance hydrogen-based polygeneration for simultaneous power and water production.

Suggested Citation

  • Gao, Ruihang & Cai, Benan & Guo, Zaimin & Yang, Dehua & Che, Xunjian & Wang, Haijun & Cai, Weihua, 2025. "Thermodynamic analysis and life cycle assessment of three hydrogen-based polygeneration systems for co-producing power and freshwater," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 341(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:341:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225052089
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139566
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    References listed on IDEAS

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