bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards the target of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) III using photovoltaic and batteries: The case study of Italy
Authors: Onori Filippo , Milletti Tommaso , Rossi Mosè , Comodi Gabriele 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The European Green Deal has set the ambitious goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, which requires an important energy transition. The Renewable Energy Directive (RED) III has raised the ratio between renewable energy production and energy consumption from 32 to 42.5%; however, renewables are intermittent and energy storage systems are needed to overcome this issue. This paper analyses the current energy situation in Italy by deepening the study in its different market zones and finding out the optimal capacity of both the photovoltaic and batteries per each zone which allows to achieve the target set by the RED III. At the same time, the energy import from abroad countries is reduced as well. An optimal management strategy of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) has been proposed by using an in-house developed Python code. Results showed that the Southern market zones (e.g., Calabria, Sicily, and South) have already reached the RED III target, while the Central and Northern ones still need to install a new photovoltaic capacity of 32.5 GW. After redistributing the excess of energy from the South to the North, the increase in the energy production from the additional photovoltaic capacity coupled with batteries would lead to a reduction of the energy import from abroad by 47.78% compared to 2022. Finally, the economic investment required to achieve this objective would be equal to 38, 159, 375 k€ with a Payback Period (PBP) of 10.4 years considering an interest rate of 4.74%.
Transient investigation of a residential building air conditioning system with heat pump and PV/T modules
Authors: Buonomo Bernardo , Manca Oronzio , Nardini Sergio , Palmieri Giulio , Plomitallo Renato Elpidio 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Nowadays, in response to the European energy crisis and the imperative to reduce carbon emissions, the study of energy systems plays a crucial role. New energy systems and configurations have been studied in the recent years to improve the energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gases emissions. This study investigates the dynamic performance of a residential HVAC system integrating photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) modules and a heat pump. The system aims to harness thermal energy from solar radiation using PV/T modules to generate electricity and heat water. The case study is performed considering a building located in Caserta. According to the authors knowledge, there is a lack of information regarding the modeling of PV/T systems with a heat pump. Inside the studied system, the thermal energy is stored in a storage tank for later use. An auxiliary heater is activated to produce domestic hot water (DHW) when the PV/T cannot provide it. The system components are modeled using TRNSYS. A dynamic simulation approach is adopted to assess the system performance under varying environmental conditions and building load demands. These load demands are used to model real-world scenarios. This kind of system offers several advantages. Firstly, the PV/T modules serve a dual purpose of electricity generation and water heating, maximizing energy utilization. Secondly, the heat pump enhances the overall efficiency of the system by extracting heat from the water stored in the puffer tank, thereby reducing reliance on conventional heating methods. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the performance and feasibility of integrating PV/T in residential HVAC systems. During the winter season, the solar fraction, the ratio between energy supply from PV/T and total energy demand, averages about 25%. When heating is not required, the PV/T panels manage to ensure the production of approximately 75% of DHW.
Preliminary analysis of an integrated ICE-gasifier plant for power generation from plastic waste material
Authors: Grilli N , Ciampolini M , Bosi L , Romani L , Ferrara G 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The escalating global production of plastic waste is a challenge that must be rapidly addressed, but it also conceals opportunities. Currently, only a minor portion of the worldwide plastic waste is recycled, with the remainder destined for either incineration or landfill. In this context, gasification emerges as a sustainable alternative to conventional waste management methods, offering a substantial reduction in pollutant emissions. Dioxins and furans emissions, in fact, are drastically reduced when compared to incineration. Additionally, in contrast to landfill disposal, gasification allows for the recovery of chemical energy contained in plastic that would otherwise be wasted. The study of plastic gasification is gaining attention and several studies demonstrated feasibility and effectiveness, despite it is not as established as biomass gasification. The present paper aims at taking a step forward by conceptualizing an integrated gasifier-internal combustion engine power plant, operating in a closed-loop system. This layout offers potential benefits from both energetic and environmental points of view, respectively related to the recovery of engine waste gas and CO2 emission reduction. The proposed plant is based on the steam/CO2 gasification technique, which allows the complete conversion of input CO2 into syngas under certain thermochemical conditions. This feature enables the operation of engine and gasifier in a closed-loop system, directly exploiting the exhaust gas to perform plastic gasification. A thermodynamic feasibility study is performed, accounting for the efficiency of the main components, the heat fluxes and the heat absorbed by the endothermic reactions inside the gasifier. The setup of the proposed power plant shows an energy conversion efficiency up to 18% in a pure electric generation scenario and up to 56% in a cogeneration scenario.
Energy balance in innovative biopolymers production for sustainable 3D printing using lignocellulosic feedstocks
Authors: Cavalaglio Gianluca , Gelosia Mattia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This study, developed within the PRIN (Nation Relevant Research Projects) project BIOforTE, investigated the production of a bio-composite for 3D-printing systems. The raw material employed in the experimental campaign was Cynara Cardunculus (var. sylvestris) which was processed by organosolv method for the extraction of high-purity cellulose and technical lignin. The high-purity cellulose was used for the production of PLA and CNCs. The bio-composite for 3D-printing consisted of the uniform dispersion of technical lignin and CNCs in the thermoplastic biopolymer PLA. The preliminary results of the mass and energy flows were investigated, collecting the input data from the experimental campaigns, such as mass flows (reagents, solvents, water, etc.), energy flows (process temperature, electricity consumption, heating, cooling, etc.) and output flows (process yield, products, by-products, waste streams, residual energy, etc.). The collected data of the pathway aims at optimizing the energy and environmental performances of each phase. All stages of the process chain, from the biomass treatments and fractionation to the biopolymeric material production and its use for 3D printing will be analysed to create a database for the development of the inventory and the evaluation of the LCA. First pathway results are presented in form of energy consumption, chemicals, and water use, intermediate bioproducts and final bio-composite mass efficiency.
The importance of an accurate numerical model for the simulations of new generation district heating systems
Authors: Dénarié Alice , Aprile Marcello , Motta Mario 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The aim of this work is to present a fast and accurate district heating simulation tool conceived to support the implementation of successful integrations of renewable energy sources along district heating networks. New generation district heating systems are facing new challenges related to increasing integrations of distributed renewable energy sources and new type of customers, such as prosumers. These connections introduce a great variety of low temperature highly variables energy profiles in the network that traditional modelling tools cannot properly simulate. Therefore, a specific thermo-hydraulic simulation model has been built to simulate the complex dynamics of entire network and its components, combining accuracy and rapidity. The model uses different numerical approaches to properly taking into account the thermal inertia of the components capacity, namely the water network and the users. The rapidity and reduction of computational effort is reached by the use of a Lagrangian approach based on the method of characteristics applied to the piping elements. Compared with the commonly used finite-volume and the node method, the proposed model shows accurate results at a lower computational expense and reducing numerical diffusion and artificial smoothing. In order to properly simulate the effects of the user behaviour on energy demand, flow rates and return temperatures of the network, a simplified but accurate user substation model is built with a lumped capacity approach. The model accuracy is investigated under real operating conditions with one-year hourly monitoring data of an Italian district heating network.
Energetic comparison between different configurations of a concentric magnetic gearbox for industrial applications
Authors: Amoresano Amedeo , Roscioli Silvia , Langella Giuseppe , Iodice Paolo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Mechanical gearboxes can achieve high torque densities. They often require recurring lubrication, cooling and maintenance, and reliability can be a significant issue, particularly for remote systems such as wind turbines, or during the operation of a ship under special conditions or circumstances that require an immediate response. For these reasons, a new type of gearbox is increasingly gaining ground, namely magnetic gearboxes (MG). It operates without contact between the moving parts and consists mainly of three concentric ‘rings’ with a number of permanent magnets and iron poles to achieve a specific gear ratio. This article presents an energy comparison in terms of induced torque between different configurations of a concentric magnetic gearbox in terms of material construction for the cores, magnets position and number of pole pairs. The data were realised using the two-dimensional Finite Element Method (FEM). The results show that although the polymer-based configuration shows some potential, the ferrous core with external magnets significantly outperforms it in terms of torque and efficiency.
Preliminary characterization of nano-silica gels for industrial applications in chilled showcases
Authors: Merli Francesca , Fraioli Francesco , Mastoori Mehrangiz , Buratti Cinzia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The aim of the paper is to characterize nano-silica gels for industrial applications in chilled showcases, achieving increased thermal insulation performance compared to current solutions, while maintaining high light transmission properties to improve transparency and colour rendering. Thin silica aerogel (3-mm thick) is a nanomaterial produced from polymers with tiny nanometric-sized pores, making it one of the lightest solids in the world. Its nanometric structure makes it ideal for thermal insulation, as it traps air in the nanopores, effectively cancelling convective heat transfer. Additionally, it is useful for gas adsorption, humidity control, and the protection of consumer goods, including food. The paper reports the assembly of several glazing prototypes and provides preliminary thermal and optical characterizations. A thermal transmittance reduction of about 33% was achieved by inserting the aerogel into the gap (thermal transmittance equal to 1.96 W/m2K vs. 2.91 W/m2K calculated for the same glazing system with only air). However, a slight deterioration in visible transmittance was measured, with the transmission peak decreasing from 0.83 to 0.80 when including aerogel.
Enhancing energy efficiency of buildings located in the Mediterranean area using Phase Change Materials (PCMs) integrated into mortar formulations.
Authors: Sarcinella Antonella , Cunha Sandra , Aguiar José , Frigione Mariaenrica 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in building materials can significantly reduce energy consumption in heating and cooling systems. PCMs absorb, store, and release thermal energy by transitioning between solid and liquid states based on external temperatures, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and lower energy use. This study evaluates the thermal performance of various mortar compositions containing PCMs made from hydraulic lime and cement. The PCMs were developed using the “form-stable” method, incorporating a porous matrix of Lecce Stone (LS), known for its high porosity, and sourced from processing waste, supporting sustainability principles. The selected PCMs were Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) with molecular weights of 800 and 1000 g/mol, suitable for Mediterranean climate temperatures. The temperatures that characterize this geographic area were simulated in a climatic chamber to assess the thermal behavior of the mortars containing the PCMs across all four seasons. The results showed that mortars with composite form-stable PCMs effectively mitigated indoor temperature fluctuations, reducing the need for heating and cooling. Additionally, energy savings calculations demonstrated significant reductions in heating and cooling costs, underscoring the potential of the PCMs to enhance building energy efficiency.
Optimization of reversible heat pumps utilizing waste heat from electric power plants
Authors: Vasylyev Andriy , Sorce Alessandro 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Current global climate targets aim to decarbonize all energy sectors. In the power generation sector, the increasing presence of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) has changed the role of Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plants. They are becoming systems that need to provide more flexibility to the grid through ancillary and balancing services or reserve capacity.
At the same time, urgent action is needed to significantly reduce the carbon intensity of the heating sector, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Using the low-exergy waste heat from water-cooled CCGT condensers as a thermal source for vapor compression heat pumps serves two purposes. Firstly, it improves the economic viability of CCGT plants, which is crucial for ensuring the security of the electricity supply. Secondly, the heat produced provides a low-carbon alternative to conventional gas-fired boilers or less efficient air-source heat pumps.
This study evaluates the potential for recovering thermal energy from seawater cooling at the condenser of the 794 MWel CCGT plant in Vado Ligure operated by Tirreno Power. A high-temperature heat pump using R600 as the working fluid is proposed. Seawater is an advantageous heat source, and integration into the power plant site allows the heat pump to be operated at a lower cost than the retail price of electricity.
To assess economic and environmental performance, the case study focuses on the new Vado Ligure sports hall. This involves sizing the heat pump and analysing its impact, managing both heating and cooling demand using the same reverse cycle heat pumps.
Performance Analysis of a Power-to-Gas Storage System based on r-SOC
Authors: Ancona M A , Brunaccini G , De Pascale A , Ferrari F , Ferraro M , Italiano C , Santangelo T , Vita A 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Power-To-Power (P2P) systems represent a promising technology to store the overgeneration from renewables generating a synthetic gas (mostly hydrogen or methane) and to convert the chemical carrier back into electricity during periods of energy demand peaks. In this context, the aim of this work is to propose, model and analyse an innovative P2P system that includes, as key components, a reversible Solid Oxide Cell (r-SOC) device and a reversible chemical reactor (RCR) working both as methanator and reformer. In the synthetic fuel production phase, water and electricity are converted into hydrogen by the r-SOC, which operates as an electrolyzer. Then, the hydrogen is in turn converted into synthetic methane by the RCR, operating as a methanator. During the discharge phase, instead, the RCR device operates as a reformer, fed by methane and water, and the r-SOC operates as a fuel cell, feeding the electricity production into the grid. The whole reversible P2P is modelled in Aspen HYSYS environment allowing to simulate both the design and off-design operation of the system. In addition, to increase the whole system’s performance, a heat recovery section is included in the model and optimized. Finally, a preliminary analysis to reproduce the behaviour of the system on varying the input available electric power will be analyzed and discussed, introducing and evaluating the key performance parameters for the system.
Thermally integrated innovative Carnot batteries to upgrade and dispatch low temperature sensible waste heat
Authors: Morosini Ettore , Alfani Dario , Renzoni Mario , Manzolini Giampaolo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This work focuses on innovative thermally integrated Carnot batteries exploiting low temperature sensible waste heat, available at temperatures between 70°C and 100°C, while adopting a sensible solid-based thermal energy storage system. The charging cycle is based on transcritical heat pumps operating with CO2-based mixtures, representing the most innovative aspect of the work, whereas the discharging cycle runs with conventional pure fluid ORC. The heat pumps adopting CO2 doped with a low fraction of hydrocarbons can achieve very high second law efficiencies (around 70%), even in a simplified cycle layout with a sensible heat source, storing heat in the low-cost storage operating between 50°C and 150°C. Similarly, an ORC with cyclopropane as working fluid is identified as the most promising solution for the discharging phase of the Carnot battery. Results show RTE of around 62% and 84% for the thermally integrated systems with waste heat sources at 70°C and 100°C, respectively, and an air-cooled ORC. Finally, calculations show that RTE close to 100% is possible with a water-cooled ORC. Both the computed values of RTEs and the high compactness and effectiveness of the innovative heat pumps highlight the necessity for additional research into thermally integrated Carnot batteries as a way to exploit and dispatch sensible waste heat.
Investigation of Cavitation Phenomena in a “High-Power” Piezohydraulic Pump: A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Approach
Authors: Sciatti Francesco , Domenico Vincenzo Di , Tamburrano Paolo , Sell Nathan , Plummer Andrew R. , Distaso Elia , Caramia Giovanni , Amirante Riccardo 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Piezoelectric pumps, known as piezopumps, are highly versatile devices with applications in various fields due to their precise flow control, compact design, lack of magnetic interference, and low noise. These pumps are classified based on the number of pumping chambers, valve configuration, and driving power source mechanism. In fields requiring consistent flow rates and back pressures, particularly in fluid power applications, piezopumps employing a piezostack actuator as their power driving source are actively researched. This kind of piezopumps, also known as piezohydraulic pumps, operate using a piezostack actuator to drive a piston for fluid delivery, along with reed valves controlling fluid flow at the inlet and outlet of the pump chamber. The high operating frequency range of the piezostack actuator and reed valves, exceeding 1 kHz, allows piezohydraulic pumps to achieve significant flow rates despite the stack’s limited displacement. This enhances their performance without the need for increased size or power input. However, this also increases the risk of cavitation, which could lead to damage, reduced efficiency, and higher noise levels. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to expand on previous research by using the CFD software Ansys Fluent to further investigate cavitation phenomena in a piezohydraulic pump developed at the University of Bath. In particular, the study focuses on simulating various oil flow scenarios through the pump with a fixed inlet pressure of 20 bar, while varying the opening of the inlet reed valve from the minimum (0.1 mm) to maximum (0.7 mm) value, as well as adjusting the pump chamber pressure.
Three-dimensional modeling of Alkaline Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Croci Federico , d’Adamo Alessandro , Pavan Nicolò , Cordisco Ilario 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The main purpose of this paper is the development of a CFD modelling methodology for the simulation of alkaline water electrolysis. The growing concern about climate change is pushing more and more countries to facilitate ecological transition programmes. Hydrogen perfectly fits the characteristics to become one of the main actors in many industrial sectors to reduce the emission of polluting gases in hard-to-abate sectors. In this framework, hydrogen must be produced through zero-impact technologies. Alkaline water electrolysis is the most widespread technology to produce green hydrogen, and through its CFD modelling it is possible to accurately simulate the behaviour of these components and enhance their performance. In this study, two three-dimensional models have been created representing two types of alkaline electrolysis cell: the first one is a standard laboratory configuration (wide-gap), the second one is a zero-gap type. Both models are based on a two-phase model (liquid: water and potassium hydroxide electrolyte, gas: hydrogen and oxygen) using a Euler-Euler approach to describe the gas bubble flow. With these models it has been possible to investigate how temperature and electrolyte flow rate affect the production of hydrogen, with particular emphasis on the pressure effect. Increasing the pressure at which hydrogen is produced could mean a significant reduction in storage compression costs, giving new horizons to this technology.
Impact of hydrogen blending on a real-world gas distribution network with a non-uniform elevation profile
Authors: Francesconi M , Guzzo G , Neri M , Marmorini M , Carcasci C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The ongoing energy transition, characterized by the increasing integration of renewable energy sources, has amplified the demand for hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. Hydrogen requires not only efficient generation but also effective distribution. Utilizing the extensive natural gas infrastructure offers a practical solution, leveraging its widespread network and cost-effective capacity to transport large volumes of gas. Nevertheless, hydrogen blending causes significant alterations in gas quality and the fluid dynamic behavior of the whole network. This study aims to investigate the effects of hydrogen blending on the main fluid dynamic parameters, flow rate balancing, and gas quality in a multi-pressure gas distribution network with a non-uniform elevation profile. The proposed real test case leverages and validates the actual geometrical, altitudinal, and topological characteristics. Steady-state simulations with different mixtures, ranging from 2% to 20% hydrogen by volume, were performed. The results show that in the medium-pressure network, it is possible to operate with hydrogen mixtures while remaining within the normative fluid dynamic limits, and a marginal benefit can even be obtained on the minimum recorded pressure. In low-pressure subnetworks, the margin of pressure safety is greatly reduced, and with off-peak demand, even small elevation changes establish the most critical withdrawal node. However, due to the different distribution of gas flows, a decrease in maximum velocity is observed. The analysis shows some new fluid dynamic aspects to be considered to support feasibility analyses for hydrogen blending on gas infrastructure laid over areas with uneven elevations.