An Assessment of the Performance of Closed Cycles With and Without Heat Rejection at Cryogenic Temperatures

This paper presents optimized cycle performance that can be obtained with systems including a closed cycle gas turbine (CCGT). The influence of maximum temperature, minimum temperature, and recuperator effectiveness on cycle performance is illustrated, Several power-plant arrangements are analyzed and compared based on thermodynamic performance (thermal efficiency and specific work); enabling technologies (available at present); and developing technologies (available in the near term or future). The work includes the effects of utilization of high temperature ceramic heat exchangers and of coupling of CCGT systems with plants vaporizing liquid hydrogen (LH2) or liquefied natural gas (LNG). Given the versatility of energy addition and rejection sources that can be utilized in closed gas-cycle systems, the thermodynamic performance of power plants shown in this paper indicate the remarkable capabilities and possibilities for closed gas-cycle systems.