Adel O. Sharif
Centre for Osmosis Research & Applications, Chemical & Process Engineering Department, University of Surrey, UK
Ali A. Merdaw
Centre for Osmosis Research & Applications, Chemical & Process Engineering Department, University of Surrey, UK
Mohammed I. Sanduk
Centre for Osmosis Research & Applications, Chemical & Process Engineering Department, University of Surrey, UK
Sami M. Al-Aibi
Centre for Osmosis Research & Applications, Chemical & Process Engineering Department, University of Surrey, UK
Zena Rahal
Centre for Osmosis Research & Applications, Chemical & Process Engineering Department, University of Surrey, UK
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http://dx.doi.org/10.3384/ecp110572190Published in: World Renewable Energy Congress - Sweden; 8-13 May; 2011; Linköping; Sweden
Linköping Electronic Conference Proceedings 57:7, p. 2190-2197
Published: 2011-11-03
ISBN: 978-91-7393-070-3
ISSN: 1650-3686 (print), 1650-3740 (online)
This paper presents a study on the potential of osmotic energy for power production. The study includes both pilot plant testing and theoretical modelling including cost estimation. A projected cost of 30 $/MWh of clean electricity could be achieved by using a Hydro-Osmotic Power (HOP) plant if a suitable membrane is used and the osmotic potential difference between the two solutions is greater than 25 bar; a condition that can be achieved in a number of ways.
Results have shown that the membrane system account for 50% - 80% of the HOP plant cost depending on the osmotic pressure difference level. Thus; further development in membrane technology and identifying suitable membranes would have significant impact on the feasibility of the process and the route to market. The results have shown the strong dependency of the produeced power cost on the membrane permeability. The results have also shown that a substantial reduction in the membrane area requirment for a given power output can be acheived as the osmotic pressure differnece between the two solutions increases beyoned 50 bar.
