Thermodynamic Optimization of Complex Energy Systems

Dear Colleagues,

Please, let me ask you to pay attention to one of the most recurrent words in Engineering and Economics, “Optimization”. In such a competitive world as ours, everything seems to be optimized, but this is not true. There is plenty of room to improve our systems, particularly in the domain of Energy. This is why you are cordially invited to contribute to the Special Issue presented here, with the subject “Thermodynamic Optimization of Complex Energy Systems”.

Topics that could be included in this Special Issue are too many for us to be able to name them all. They can run from classical subjects to the new requirements of sustainable development. Thermal energy storage is a very powerful mechanism for storing energy, but it conveys the design of a thermodynamic cycle with high efficiency both for feeding the storage and to discharge it. Supercritical cycles, particularly with CO2, are a promise that must reach a mature level soon, and it will help other topics, notably concentrating solar power, which will have to be treated in the Special Issue with the interest it deserves. Extremely low temperatures also require many optimization approaches. Type II superconductors, such as MgB2, have stirred a lot of attention for the transport of huge electrical currents, but those cables need to be inside an envelope keeping its internals at the temperature of liquid hydrogen. This is not an easy task. Cryogenics is a mandatory word in this context, and thermodynamics must be the integrating factor for all these challenges.

Please, consider this Special Issue as an opportunity to review facts and theories, and to approach a brighter future. Your papers and proposals will be checked, studied, and treated with warm enthusiasm.

The deadline for paper submission is extended until the end of September 2020, because of the abnormal living and working conditions produced by the pandemic COVID-19. Nevertheless, authors are encouraged to send contributions as soon as possible, to speed up the editing process.

Papers of relevance and high quality will be sponsored by Madrid (Spain) based Foundation F2i2, who will pay for their page fees. Originality in how to deal with the concept of Optimization will be highly appreciated.

I look forward to hearing from you soon, and I remain at your disposal should you have any questions about this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Jose M. Martinez-Val
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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