Theoretical performance analysis of hydrate-based refrigeration system

Abstract

This paper reports theoretical performance analysis of the hydrate-based refrigeration system. The hydrate-based refrigerator transfers thermal energy through the cycle of following processes: adiabatic compression of guest compounds and water, hydrate formation, adiabatic expansion of hydrates, hydrate dissociation. The theoretical analyses and COP calculations were performed in the each of the following hydrate-forming systems: HFC-32+cyclopentane(CP) +water, Kr+CP+water, and HFC-41+CP+water system. Practical utility of hydrate-based refrigerator is discussed based on the comparison with the Carnot cycle.