Improving the design of self-sustaining power plant prototypes through profit optimization

Abstract

This study investigates disruptive technological pathways for the optimal design of self-sustaining thermal power systems. It focuses on unconventional "vacuum-induced pulling forces," a phenomenon largely overlooked by traditional thermodynamics, where cooling a thermal working fluid (TWF) generates a vacuum and produces mechanical work without direct thermal energy input. This mechanism challenges foundational principles, including the First Law of Thermodynamics (FLT), energy conservation, Carnot’s theorem, and exergy concept definitions.

The research aims to refine the design methodology for Self-Sustaining Power Plants (SSPPs) by optimizing the constant temperature drop (ΔT) between cascaded Power Units (PUs). This strategy facilitates the use of identical PUs, minimizing the number of units required while maximizing life-cycle benefits. A constant ΔT is critical for ensuring consistent useful work output under a constant heat input. The primary objective is to determine the optimal number of cascaded PUs that maximizes the system's self-sufficiency index and overall performance.

Design results indicate that the optimal SSPP configuration, achieving a peak self-sufficiency index, utilizes 8 to 9 cascaded PUs for a ΔT between 40–50 K. This approach simplifies mechanical structure and reduces design, implementation, and operational costs, offering a feasible and disruptive pathway toward truly autonomous energy systems.