(602ar) Process Synthesis for an Organic Rankine Cycle Using Low Enthalpy Geothermal Sources

Energy sustainability is one of the most important issues in the 21th century because of the many problems (global warming, atmospheric pollution, sustainability, etc.) associated with the use of fossil energy sources. In this context, renewable energy sources, like geothermal water, are promising energy sources basically in term of sustainability. In addition, those energy sources can provide energy without negative impacts in our environment. In recent years, many works have been focused on the development of efficient energy conversion processes using renewable sources. 

In this work a Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) model for process synthesis in an Organic Rankine Cycle using a low enthalpy geothermal source is presented. The proposed model was applied to a case study in order to evaluate many design option for the process involved. The results showed that the proposed model is adequate for the optimization of process configuration and operation in Organic Rankine Cycles, resulting in the generation of electricity with a competitive production cost using a low enthalpy geothermal source.