Futai eC02 Supercritical Energy Agency
"eCO₂ supercritical power circulation generator" is one of the next generation power generation technologies aiming for carbon neutral and highly efficient power generation. Simply put, it is a power generation system that uses supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂) as the working fluid. An easy-to-understand overview is provided below.
■ What is supercritical CO₂ (sCO₂)?
* Supercritical state: When CO₂ is brought to high temperatures and high pressures (approximately 31°C or higher, 7.38MPa or higher), it becomes a "supercritical fluid" with properties intermediate between a liquid and a gas.
* CO₂ in this state has extremely high energy density and thermal conductivity, making it efficient for heat exchange and energy conversion in turbines.
■ Features of eCO₂ supercritical power circulation generator
1. High efficiency:
* It has higher thermal efficiency (up to 50% higher) than conventional steam turbines, reducing fuel consumption.
2. Compact and lightweight:
* Since sCO₂ is highly dense, it is possible to downsize turbines and heat exchangers. Also suitable for space, submarines and distributed power generation.
3. Reducing environmental impact:
* Since reusable CO₂ is used as the working fluid, it can be used without increasing emissions and contributes to a decarbonized society.
4. Flexible heat source support:
* Compatible with various heat sources such as nuclear power, renewable energy (solar heat, etc.), and industrial waste heat.
■ Application example
* Combined use with next-generation nuclear power generation (SMR, etc.)
* Solar thermal power generation system
* Geothermal power generation
* Power supply in outer space (future application)
* Compact distributed power generation system