Technologies for Efficient Heat Utilization (TEW)

Thermodynamics and Fluid Dynamics

Power Plant Engineering

• Investigation of thermal and fluid dynamics in supercritical media
• Thermodynamic simulation calculations of power plant processes
• Adaptation and optimization of Organic Rankine Cycle processes to site-specific conditions
• Sector coupling

Heat Transfer

• Design and adaptation of heat exchangers
• Investigations into heat transfer
• System simulation of heating networks and plants
• Optimization of coolers and condensers
• Heat management of technical systems / Utilization of industrial waste heat using the example of an injection molding machine
• Separation and capture of CO₂ from the atmosphere

Heat Pumps

• Simulation of the thermodynamic cycle of heat pumps
• Studies on phase-change heat storage systems

Geothermal Energy

Geochemistry

• Prevention of scaling using inhibitors or CO₂
• Investigation of the interaction between thermal water and rock
• Bypass tests for scale formation
• Exposure of material samples in a corrosion loop

Water Treatment

• Electricity-Self-Sufficient Water Treatment Using Waste Heat (OSCAR)

Thermal Water Cycle

• Determination of the physical properties of thermal waters
• Expansion/validation of material data for geothermal cycle processes

Ongoing Projects

• MoNiKa: Transient simulation of operating modes
• OSCAR: Commissioning of a water treatment plant
• SCHUTZGRUND: Investigations into the protection of the subsurface against modified geothermal fluids
• Accompanying research project “Digital Twin” for the DAAD Double Degree Master’s program with ITBA Buenos Aires
• Energy flows in an injection molding machine (in collaboration with IAI and IAM)

Completed Projects

• EvA-M2: Evaluation of precipitation inhibitors for the Molasse Basin
• EIKE
• RIAS 
• PETher/MobiFlow

Methods:

• Laser-optical measurements of flow, temperature, and species in reaction chambers
• Determination of porosity and surface area of solids
• Particle size determination and particle distribution
• Measurement of solid concentrations in liquids using absorption spectroscopy
• Two-phase measurement technology

Contact:

elisabeth.schroeder∂kit.edu