Preliminary Study on the Next-Generation Technology for Efficient Energy Conversion

Preliminary studies have been done in a framework of the “Symbolic Project of College of Science and Technology, Nihon University” on the new technologies potentially capable of improving energy conversion efficiency. New concepts for thermal engine, solar and nuclear energy utilization, and for their associated numerical simulation were proposed. Through the basic studies, their feasibility and impact on the future practice have been examined. The low-temperature combustion engine, HCCI (Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition) engine, Gasoline Sabathe-cycle engine, SOFC jet-engine are evaluated as the new engine concept. For the utilization of solar heat, chemical pumping and Rankine cycle based system are examined. A catalytic nuclear fusion concept are also evaluated. The highlights of these individual studies are presented. In addition to the diversity of the studies, synergy between combustion technology and plasma technology have been promoted. This brought a novel plasma-assisted HCCI engine concept and its potential are also introduced.