Chapters authored
Energy Recovery from the LNG Regasification Process
The global request of natural gas (NG) is continuously increasing, consequently also the regasification of liquefied natural gas (LNG) is becoming a process largely employed. Liquefied natural gas at a temperature of around 113 K at atmospheric pressure has to be regasified for its transportation by pipeline. The regasification process makes the LNG exergy available for various applications, particularly for the production of electrical energy. Different possibilities to exploit the thermal energy released during regasification are available. New plant configurations whose functioning does not constrain the processes of the regasification terminal are proposed. A possible solution is LNG exploitation as a cold source for ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) power plants. Electric energy can be produced also by the exploitation of heat released from hot sources, for instance, the condensation heat of power plants by means of consecutive thermodynamic cycles. The rational use of the cold source (LNG) allows the increment of electrical production and growth of the thermodynamic efficiency, with corresponding environmental benefits.
Part of the book: Advances in Natural Gas Emerging Technologies
Monitoring Indoor Air Quality in Buildings: An Overview of Measuring Devices and Main Challenges for a Correct Operation
This research delves into the foundational elements of thermal comfort, crucial alongside visual comfort, acoustic comfort, and air quality for ensuring the quality and sustainability of living environments. With increasing recognition of thermal comfort’s implications across various human activities, from energy management for efficiency to considerations of environmental impact and economy, its comprehensive understanding is paramount. The study scrutinizes the prevailing methodology of evaluating comfort via true thermal sensation rating, dissecting the involved variables and their relative significance in determining comfort levels. Following this analysis and parameter definition, a comparative assessment of diverse sensors was conducted to gauge measurement accuracy concerning key variables of interest, thereby identifying the most suitable sensor for real-world applications. Conducted at the ENEA research center in Rome, the study executed an experimental setup within one of the center’s offices. Subsequently, reflections were made on the feasibility of providing indoor comfort indications amidst variable data availability, exploring potential simplifications and approximations to streamline comfort index evaluations.
Part of the book: Advancements in Indoor Environmental Quality and Health