Abstract:
In this paper, the concept of heat extraction from the gradient zone (GZ) in solar ponds has
been analyzed in a more realistic manner to overcome the drawbacks of previously conducted
studies. For this purpose, a net heat transfer coefficient has been invoked to investigate
the heat transfer occurring from the GZ to the exchanger installed in this zone, in
addition to the storage zone (SZ). Analytical solutions for temperature profiles in the GZ
and the corresponding exchanger have been obtained which are further used to investigate
various aspects of the thermal performance of the pond. The consideration of realistic heat
transfer across the GZ exchanger reveals that the ideal thickness of GZ yielding maximum
power output is always under-predicted by the idealized assumption of the literature. Unlike
intuitive perception, the conventional assumption of an infinite heat transfer coefficient does
not affect the pond stability because, for all practical purposes, the critical salt diffusion
rate predicted by it is always larger than the actual critical value required for ensuring
stable pond operation. However, as expected, the rate of exergy destruction caused by
the pond’s operation is found to be underestimated by the idealized assumption. This
study provides a useful analytical tool to make more realistic predictions on various performance
parameters of solar ponds utilizing the heat stored in their GZ.
