Energy, exergy and thermoeconomic analysis of an industrial solar pond

This study evaluates the viability of an industrial salinity gradient solar pond during two operating seasons (2014 and 2015). The Granada was built to supply low-temperature heat (up 60 °C) satisfy temperature requirements flotation unit in a mineral processing plant (Solvay Minerales (Spain)). Energy analysis indicates that non-convective zone (NCZ) upper convective (UCZ) have low efficiencies because these zones capacity store heat, no extractions are carried out from zones. In contrast, extraction lower (LCZ) has positive impact on system it increases energy. Higher were achieved second operation period LCZ, since higher amount extracted this period. overall exergy efficiency LCZ after first periods 1.6% 2.3%, respectively. works at temperatures close room thus exergetic decreases significantly. Regarding thermoeconomic analysis, cost stored is studied work, using different approaches, by estimating minimum price for or surface area ensure viability. tends decrease inversely fuel oil. Thus, must be four five times than oil feasible. On other hand, technology affected economies scale; larger pond, inflation rates reduction can accommodated. implies complex due variability processes involved lead erroneous interpretations when evaluating perspective.