Combined Cycle Systems for Near-Zero Emission Power Generation

Preface

Ashok D. Rao

Near-zero power generation implies control not only of criteria pollutants such as NO_x, CO and volatile organic compounds but also of the greenhouse gas CO₂. Approximately, a third of all the CO₂ emissions due to human activity come from fossil fuel-based power plants, with each power plant capable of emitting several million tonnes of CO₂ annually. Furthermore, the increased demand for electricity is expected to continue well into the middle of this century, with the projected demand on a global basis more than doubling its current value. Improvements in thermal efficiency through the incorporation of more advanced technologies as well as improved plant configurations can certainly decrease the carbon footprint of electricity ...