Eco Factor: Researchers working on new technology to generate geothermal energy at low temperatures and low cost.
Research conducted by MIT estimates that enhanced geothermal systems could provide 10% of the electricity demands of the nation by 2050. While geothermal energy has been in the news for quite some time, researchers were in need of a system that can convert moderate heat into useful electricity without making use of complex and costly systems. Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have devised an ingenious technology which will help facilities in generating electricity from moderate heat brought to the surface from water circulating in moderately hot underground rock.
The technology is based n the use of a newly developed liquid, which the researchers call the biphasic fluid. The liquid rapidly expands and contracts according to the changes in temperature, which can power a turbine when brought into contact with moderate heat. To aid in efficiency, the scientists have also added nanostructured metal-organic heat carriers, which boost the power generation capacity to near that of a conventional steam cycle.
PNNL is now receiving $1.2 million as one of the 21 DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy grants to boost the research. With enough funding PNNL is planning to develop a functioning bench-top prototype generating electricity by the end of this year.
Via: PNNL [Press Release]
