Entropy Generation Minimization for Energy-Efficient Desalination
Author(s)
Lienhard, John H
DownloadLIENHARD-Entropy-desalination-IMECE-2018-pdfA2b.pdf (846.7Kb)
PUBLISHER_POLICY
Publisher Policy
Article is made available in accordance with the publisher's policy and may be subject to US copyright law. Please refer to the publisher's site for terms of use.
Terms of use
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Desalination systems can be conceptualized as power cycles, in which the useful work output is the work of separation of fresh water from saline water. In this framing, thermodynamic analysis provides powerful tools for raising energy efficiency. This paper discusses the use of entropy generation minimization for a spectrum of desalination systems, including those based on reverse osmosis, humidification-dehumidification, membrane distillation, electrodialysis, and forward osmosis. The energy efficiency of desalination is shown to be maximized when entropy generation is minimized. Equipartition of entropy generation is considered and applied to these systems. The mechanisms of entropy generation in these systems are characterized, including the identification of major causes of irreversibility. Methods to limit discarded exergy are also identified. Prospects and technology development needs for further improvement are mentioned briefly.
Date issued
2018-11Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering; Rohsenow Kendall Heat Transfer Laboratory (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)Journal
Volume 6B: Energy
Publisher
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Citation
Lienhard, John H. “Entropy Generation Minimization for Energy-Efficient Desalination.” Volume 6B: Energy (November 9, 2018).
Version: Final published version
ISBN
978-0-7918-5208-8