Ecological optimization of generalized irreversible chemical engines

Abstract

Optimal ecological performance of generalized irreversible chemical engine cycles with both linear and diffusive mass transfer laws are derived by taking an ecological optimization criterion as the objective, which consists of maximizing a function representing the best compromise between the power output and the entropy production rate of the chemical engines. In this paper, the relations between the ecological function, power output, entropy production rate and the efficiency of a chemical engine cycle with irreversibilities of mass transfer, mass leakage and internal dissipation, in which the mass transfer, are derived. This paper also derives the maximum ecological function and the corresponding power output, entropy production rate and efficiency, the maximum power output and the corresponding ecological function, entropy production rate and efficiency, and the maximum efficiency and the corresponding ecological function, power output and entropy production rate. The results can provide some theoretical guidelines for the design of practical chemical engines. Copyright © 2010 The Berkeley Electronic Press. All rights reserved.