Bryan Vermes - Blog

BLOG ENTRY: Science Experiment Brainstorming

BLOG ENTRY: Science Experiment 

The Task

Our task today was to begin drawing up potential ideas that will lead us to an informative, challenging, and exciting final experiment. To begin this conversation, my team and I (which includes Jessica Hickey and will be led by Rebecca Eshoo) had an ice-breaking session. We discussed different things we have studied in the class and what we were looking to take away from this assignment. Growing to be comfortable with all parties that will be participating in this experiment is an important step forward in allowing creativity. Following this, we laid out our goals for this presentation:

1. Create a presentation that is informative and in-line with class material
2. Ensure that the experiment is doable
3. Write a procedure that can be easily followed, with the objectives clearly outlined through an effective analysis of recorded data

Discussing Possibilities

Our conversation about what experiment we will put together ranged from the topics of climate change, energy generation, and thermal power. We also touched upon more tech-driven experiments that would require the usage of phones and potentially an iPad. However, as we did go through some of these experiment concepts, we quickly realized that many of them were unrealistic. To create a worthwhile presentation, we needed to ensure that the tools could be acquired and that the information will be readily available within the allotted final exam period.

Our focus for the presentation will be on heat. While not having details ready at this time, we do have a broad concept for our experiment:

• Compare insulation of heat with different materials
• Utilize different liquids to compare the heat capacity of each
• Analyze the impact such research can have in homes in terms of sustainability and limiting energy leakage

Back-Up Plans

Because we have not tested our experiment yet, it was important for our team to also draw up possible back-up plans. We researched the possibility of experimenting with the greenhouse effect by heating water with different coverings on the top of each container. In addition, we explored the idea of testing energy levels from different food types. We would utilize a program to potentially measure reaction time before and after different calorie consumption with individuals. These ideas will be explored further if the first idea proves to be too difficult.

Conclusion

Our first brainstorming session today proved to be productive and exciting. My team is definitely excited to get to work and see what we can put together for the class to learn from!

BLOG ENTRY: Keystone Pipeline

BLOG ENTRY: Keystone XL Pipeline

The pending approval (or disapproval) of the Keystone XL pipeline has become a political football for the past few years. The project (shown in the diagram below) has become less about the facts and more about the rhetoric between Democrats and Republicans.

The Keystone Pipeline already exists, and it runs from Alberta, Canada to Crushing, Oklahoma. What’s pending approval from regulators is a 1,700 miles worth of expansion that would cut into two sections. The first section would connect Crushing, Oklahoma with the Gulf Coast (in Texas). This has gone into operation. The second portion would span from Alberta to Kansas, through the Bakken Shale region. At peak capacity, the pipeline will deliver 830,000 barrels of oil per day. Furthermore, it would offer the benefit of carrying US light crude oil and heavier Canadian oil harvested over tar sands. There is room for further exploration of this heavier oil as technological advancements continue. This second portion of the project is what is currently pending approval from the federal government.

The application for the pipeline extension was received by the State Department in May 2012, by TransCanada Corp., and the debate has continued since. In coordination with other federal departments, studies have been taking place on the economic and environmental impact of the proposed project.

Despite the potential benefits of increased access to Canadian oil and increased North American energy security, opponents have countered that opening a channel for carbon-rich, Canadian tar-sands oil would increase carbon emissions significantly. To convert the heavier product to usable oil, one of two methods must be used. Separating the carbon and hydrogen rich products, followed by the removal of the carbon rich component, is one method. The other option involves adding hydrogen to increase the hydrogen-to-carbon ratio of the resulting product, by mixing the initial product with a hydrogen-rich compound such as natural gas. Both processes require a significant amount of energy, often fueled by fossil fuels. Furthermore, environmentalists insist that Trans Canada will destroy the local ecosystems in the tar-sands basin.

An estimated 170 billion barrels of oil is recoverable, which would accommodate anticipated US demand for over 30 years. Oil production in Alberta tar sands totaled 1.9 million barrels per day in 2012, and is expected to double by 2022. Due to this growth (underscored in the graph above), one third of US imports of petroleum came from Canada in the last year. The potential economic benefits of this oil must be balanced with the environmental concerns discussed prior before a final decision is made.

While being sympathetic to environmental issues, I would urge the American government to approve the Keystone Pipeline extension. The proposed project would create 2,000 jobs, in addition to the added energy security. Furthermore, well over 60% of the public is polled to have support for the project. Specific poll numbers are shown in the pie chart below this paragraph. Disapproving the pipeline would not stop exploration from expanding in Canada (a sharp increase in carbon emissions from the region already is proof of this). Instead, we would simply be taking ourselves out of the group of parties that would directly benefit from the exploration. To address longer-term energy and carbon concerns, the US should still move forward in imposing strict new standards on power plants and increase car standards. This ensures that fossil fuel providers are not receiving a unconditional approval for their projects. Pairing these decisions together would address short-term energy demands, while concurrently limiting carbon emissions in the long-term.

References:

http://stateimpact.npr.org/texas/tag/keystone-xl-pipeline/

http://www.keystonepipeline-xl.state.gov/

http://harvardmagazine.com/2013/11/the-keystone-xl-pipeline

http://www.latinpost.com/articles/8522/20140308/keystone-xl-pipeline-project-pros-cons-facts-recent-poll-shows.htm

http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress/keystone-xl-pipeline-just-the-facts-20111208

BLOG ENTRY: The President’s Plan

BLOG ENTRY: The President’s Climate Plan

Cutting Carbon Emissions from Power Plants

The EPA’s movement forward to limit carbon emissions from power plants has caused the greatest controversy of the president’s plan. Despite a Supreme Court ruling that the EPA actually has an obligation to protect the public’s health and limit carbon emissions in some form, backlash has continued to be strong (especially from coal supporters).

Analyzing the carbon data coming from the US, it’s absolutely essential that we take the lead in limiting carbon emissions. A huge portion from our carbon output is from power plants. If we want to tackle this problem, how is it possible to do so without targeting one of the largest sources of emissions? The graph above shows that progress is slowly being made, but there is still a significant amount of work to be done.

As stated in the class text, attempts to limit carbon emissions from things like airplanes are fruitless if we are to ignore the glaring problem of inefficient electricity production. Furthermore, American coal and natural gas plants have the technology available to vastly improve carbon output levels. There needs to be a cost incentive for these plant operators to make available upgrades, and harsher penalties from the EPA is a step in the right direction. The pie chart above underscores the importance of electric power generation being an area where we see improvements. EPA action would allow us to move forward.

Increasing Car Efficiency Standards

The Obama administration should be applauded for taking the lead with reducing carbon emissions from vehicles, while concurrently boosting efficiency significantly. With an aim of having 54.5 MPG efficiency for passenger cars by 2025, the US has restored itself as a role model for the international community in regards to protecting the environment (in the area of transportation).

The increase in fuel standards (shown in the above graph) is expected to reduce emissions by the amount that the country emits in one year in total. This is a significant improvement over the status-quo, and underscores the ability for targeted measures to also be effective measures. Big legislation may accomplish more, but executive action can still be put to use in protecting the environment.

Following the announcement of US measures, China and India have also announced action to increase fuel standards to levels comparable to America’s 2025 goal. This highlights the ability for the global community to come together and address an energy and climate crisis in an effective manner.

Boosting Investment in Renewable Energy

The US has had serious problems with investing consistently in renewable energy. Obama’s plan to streamline permitting and continue basic investment into these forms of energy is a promising start. However, a broader plan should be put into place to ensure that the wind and solar sectors are not subject to the pressures of partisan politics. It’s embarrassing that China is showing off more elaborate solar and wind projects than the US, when the US has already long transitioned into a service economy and has more flexibility to promote such fuel usage. The graph below shows the positive development of continued government support of wind power.

With that stated, and as pointed out in the class text, it’s important that our energy policy also promote efficiency improvements. This would mean a continued investment in natural gas as a replacement to coal, and more research into carbon capture technologies. An all-the-above solution is more viable for achieving energy needs while also reducing carbon emissions.

The US has made some great strides in the past 4 years to restore its standing as a leader when it comes to environmental issues. While our climate policy is still in-flux, the drop in carbon emissions in recent years should provide hope that we can still meet this challenge.

References:

1)      http://www.whitehouse.gov/climate-change

2)      http://www.autonews.com/article/20131205/OEM11/131209907/u.s.-to-help-china-crack-down-on-vehicle-emissions

3)      http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/blog/post/2013/04/obama-budget-proposal-calls-for-nearly-1b-in-clean-energy-spending

4)      http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/science/indicators/ghg/us-ghg-emissions.html

BLOG ENTRY: Science Museum Visit

BLOG ENTRY: Science Museum Visit

Introduction

Visiting the Boston Science Museum offered the opportunity for the class to build upon our knowledge of sustainable energy. Instead of a lecture, we utilized different tools at the varying exhibits to further enhance our understanding of the material and learn about other new technologies. Joined by Rebecca, I was able to enjoy the hands-on learning experience to the fullest extent possible!

Catching the Wind

The wind energy exhibit was incredibly interesting and provided a wealth of information. While it’s often a core energy source debated as the US works to improve its national energy policy, understanding of how we actually generate the power from the turbines is sometimes limited.

The first tool we interacted with is a wind generator that highlighted the amount of speed needed to generate power (shown above). According to the diagram, only 5-12mph speeds are needed to begin wind energy generation. It felt lighter than what we had felt outside when coming into the museum! Furthermore, the exhibit pointed out that wind energy is actually a form of sun energy. The uneven distribution of heat from the sun onto the planet causes the warm air to rise in some places, which is then replaced with cooler air. This phenomenon creates wind, which we use for our energy.

Further, a second tool put on display were gears that highlighted the amount of power that can be generated. The large rotation of big gears allowed the smaller gears to generate more electricity! This same concept is applied to different wind turbine designs, such as the very-efficient Proven 6 model wind turbine.

Energize!

The second exhibit we visited was centered on an analysis of solar energy. Sometimes linked together with wind power in the great energy debates, the exhibit provided a wide range of hands-on learning tools. Further, it also focused on other energy sources and the need for a diversification of energy sources. This provided a realistic analysis of what can be done to create a cleaner, more-efficient power supply.

The most interactive tool that I used (shown above) was simple: Power a city using a set number of energy sources. However, the amount of environmental destruction and the amount of energy produced had to be balanced. If the energy plan was too one-sided, the model reset itself. If a viable energy solution was created, the city above the model would light up. As much as I wanted a city that relied fully on renewable energy, I quickly realized the city was never going to be powered! I instead created a balanced energy plan that was green and realistic. This tool helped refocus my views on energy sources to be more realistic with current energy demand.

Another tool available allowed us to shine light on different parts of a solar house, and there was a measuring tool provided to indicate how much power was being produced. Different parts of the house would receive the light at different angles, and there were objects that could be used to cover parts of the solar panels. This tool underscored the importance of a reliable, steady amount of solar light for this energy source to be a sizable producer. Without a means to store the energy, it would be impossible to fully utilize solar power to its greatest potential. However, with technologies moving forward in that area, that obstacle may be tackled soon!

Nanotechnology

The nanotechnology exhibit showed how far we have come in terms of using atoms as a means to produce usable goods. From cancer treatments to future solar cells, nanotechnology offers a pathway to greater efficiency and life-saving technologies. Further, it’s already being utilized today to enhance our daily lives.

The biggest information piece I got during this exhibit is the potential nanotechnology has to dramatically change cancer treatment. According to the diagram, future cancer treatments might be able to use tiny gold nanoshells and infrared light to fight tumors. Further, there is hopes that this technology could be used cure a wide range of other illnesses that have been difficult to address!

A quote displayed (shown above) in the exhibit captures the core idea: “Nanotechnology allows us to build things the way nature does-Atom by atom.” This area of research unlocks countless opportunities for advanced technological development. It’s used already in sunblock and in computer chips, so it’s going to be interesting (and fun) to see where it heads next!

Conserve at Home

The Conserve@Home exhibit opened my eyes to the amount of waste that’s in every house in this country! More than ever, we need to focus on the three key concepts highlighted in this exhibit: Reduce, reuse, and recycle.

I spent much of my time in this exhibit shocked by the amount of power a hair dryer uses! Yes, a hair dryer! A tool (shown above) provided in the exhibit related draining water to the amount of energy drained through every-day house appliances. The hair dryer, at 1,000 watts, drained the energy source incredibly fast. It made me feel rather guilty for how much time I spend on my hair!

This exhibit also focused on providing the information needed for individuals to make better decisions. For example, diagrams that showed how water bottles could be used to make bridges and jackets underscored the absolute importance of continuous recycling of plastic. Further, an energy audit display showing leakage of heat from a home pointed out the importance of insulation and energy efficient building codes.

Conclusion

The visit to the Boston Science Museum gave us a chance to learn about sustainability and future technologies outside of the classroom. I had not gone in many years, so this was definitely a refreshing and fun experience! The information provided will allow me to make better decisions about my energy usage in the future.

BLOG ENTRY: Pandora’s Promise Review

BLOG ENTRY: Pandora’s Promise Review

Introduction

Pandora’s Promise offered a polarizing introduction with a quote from an anti-nuclear protester, and carried on to provide an in-depth look in the nuclear energy debate. I truly enjoyed the opportunity to immerse myself in the stories of those who’ve had conflicting views about nuclear power, as I have had myself. Further, the film’s utilization of a wide-range of different topics (from nuclear weapons, to global warming, to the different kinds of nuclear reactors) helped build on my base knowledge of the nuclear energy industry.

Before delving into the specific topics discussed in the film, on a broader scale I appreciated the natural presentation of the facts. Rather than feeling like the movie was a propaganda piece, it was instead an interesting and informative movie that allowed for my own opinions to be tested.

Review: Specific Topics Covered

Nuclear Proliferation

The topic of nuclear proliferation was hit strongly in this film, as it’s one of the biggest issues facing nuclear power proponents. While I’m skeptical of monitoring capabilities, I concede that the film did dispel many of my concerns about the ability for these nuclear power facilities to be utilized easily to build dangerous weapons. I learned that many old Russian nuclear warheads are now being recycled to be used in reactors for usable energy! With that said, a broader range of interview from those in the security field at the Pentagon would have allowed a different perspective on this issue.

The United Nations offers the globe a wide range of tools to punish nuclear activity that could endanger public safety. Highlighting more of these specific tools, specifically the research done by the IAEA, would have assisted in further grasping the magnitude of the nuclear proliferation threat.

Climate Change

Climate change is the key to the current energy debate, and the nuclear debate. Pandora’s Promise focused on this message, and it’s something that resonated with me through the film. While nuclear power has its downsides, which was indicated at multiple points, the clock is ticking for action on climate action. Renown environmental activists such as Stewart Brand assist in making the green-driven case for nuclear energy. Specifically, the increase in carbon emissions from the developing world could be contained (with decreased levels of poverty) if we allowed for greater usage of nuclear power. This win-win is an area I’m glad the movie covered, as it’s the central argument that could be used to promote nuclear power.

The Obama administration, and government bodies across Europe and Japan, all highlighted nuclear power as a means to combat climate change. It’s imperative that these arguments are backed up with carbon emission goals, and the amount of progress that nuclear power will contribute to specifically.

Nuclear Accidents

The Chernobyl (shown above) and Three Mile Island accident are both important nuclear accidents that deserved greater analysis in this movie. While understanding that Western nuclear plants are often ore secure than what was put in place at Chernobyl, safety is still a concern for communities where proposed nuclear plants would be built. To strengthen the case for nuclear power, there should be a greater emphasis on safety standards put into place at an international scale. Questions about what makes Western plants different need to be answered more clearly.

The movie did utilize many scientific experts who had their own varying views. For example, Mark Lynas highlights the concerns from the Fukushima nuclear crisis. However, despite these potential costs of nuclear power, Lynas continues to make the case as to why nuclear power also offers so many benefits to the public. This offered an objective view on nuclear safety that allowed myself as the viewer to feel that the facts being stated were accurate. Further usage of these expert opinions, paired with an understanding of safety laws already in place, would likely bring about greater demand for nuclear power.

Conclusion

Nuclear power in the United States specifically is seemingly underutilized. This fuel source offers an opportunity for the public to tackle the climate change issue while concurrently bringing safer, more reliable energy to our homes. While there is a cost, especially in monetary terms as indicated by Michael Shellenberger, other energy sources are seemingly more damaging. Pandora’s Promise offered expert views on the benefits and costs of nuclear power. At points, I wish there would have been a greater usage of experts from a more expansive range of industries that may oppose further usage of the energy source. With that said, there was a broad range of different studies and historical information that presented a strong case (in my view) for quickly expanding nuclear power capacity. I would urge more advocates to use facts, research, and objective data (like in this film) to argue their case further. Admittedly, I was a nuclear skeptic going into this movie. Following my viewing, I am certainly more open to the expansion of this energy source.

BLOG ENTRY: MIT Nuclear Facility Visit

BLOG ENTRY: MIT Nuclear Facility Visit

Visiting the MIT Nuclear Reactor (shown above) provided an opportunity to see the facilities we have been discussing in class in person. I had been completely unaware that we had such research reactors available in the country! Instead, I had imagined all nuclear reactions taking place in huge nuclear power plants. These facilities, from what was discussed during the tour, really provide us the tools we need to do all forms of research. From medical to energy production analysis, this trip underscored the importance of continued research funding by the government.

Initial Impression

Entering the actual reactor itself was very interesting. I learned from just that initial moment that these reactors required a different amount of air pressure. That’s a small detail I didn’t know, but something (that if changed) would probably cause so many problems inside the reactor! Further, the layers of radiation checking/scanning truly made it a surreal experience that seemed straight from the movies. Some things can be exaggerated, but the precaution taken at these types of plants certainly were not! Varying forms of radiation measurements, and the real-life usage of a Geiger-counter, added a hands-on learning experience with what we had discussed in class and from Tom Vales’s lecture.

Tour

Our tour guide provided an enthusiastic and informative session. The biggest takeaway I had was the amount of medical research that can be conducted at a nuclear reactor. When I had imagined radiation being used for cancer treatment, I didn’t imagine the rays they had set up at MIT.  There were posters that demonstrated how such medical treatments would take place, and they offered a detailed look at research-driven operations. Further, it was unfortunate that it seems that research is often driven by interest fueled funding more-so than healthcare needs. This tour re-energized my view that basic scientific research needs to be receiving more consistent support.

The next part of the tour that I found to be most interesting was the control room (shown above). It looked like something that could have been inside of submarine! However, the work being done in those rooms are so incredibly important to the safety of those working in and around the reactor. I simply cannot imagine how big those rooms may be in a larger nuclear facility that’s consistently at critical energy levels. From the demonstration we received, it surprised me that none of the tools was computer-generated. This provided security against potential cyber threats, although newer technologies are now being tested with software.

Lastly, I noted the amount of security precautions taken even for those who seemed to be comfortable in the facility. There was multiple layers of personnel monitoring the equipment, in addition to individuals wearing protective gear around the top of the reactor. While it didn’t provide me with an answer to the nuclear safety question, it brought to my mind the question of the potential that nuclear power plant security concerns are overblown. The tour guide underscored the amount of radiation put into the atmosphere from different byproducts of coal mining and other energy sources, and I found that to be an argument often not used by advocates of nuclear power. Nuclear energy isn’t the only form of energy production that ultimately leads to radiation output, and that’s an important detail in the broader energy debate!

Conclusion

While it’s interesting to read and write about the potential pros and cons of nuclear energy, it’s a great experience to go to a facility and get up close and personal. The realization I had with this tour, as I implied earlier in my blog, is that there seems to be an information deficit with nuclear power. I have consistently viewed radiation as something inevitable with nuclear power exclusively, and linked that with overall fear of nuclear power utilization. However, given a broader realm of information on radiation and actually seeing the safety measures in action, my views are continuing to evolve. I am incredibly lucky to have been able to see the facility, and am glad to walk away with a more grounded opinion on nuclear research and the potential benefits. These reactors provide a great amount of information that will likely lead to safer medical uses of radiation and a greater amount of secure nuclear power in the future.

BLOG ENTRY: Tom Vales Demo Summary

BLOG ENTRY: Tom Vales Lecture

Introduction

Tom Vales’s lecture covered a broad range of information that I had never been “exposed” (pun) to prior! From hearing about uses of nuclear energy, to specific forms of radiation that are very dangerous, I was excited to learn from him. Nuclear power is an issue I’ve been torn with for years, so this lecture provided with increased insight on the benefits and potential costs of this energy source.

Specific Facts Learned

First and foremost, Vales underscored some basic definitions in our discussion of radiation. A radioactive element is in constant decay and is unstable. Furthermore, he highlighted that it came in three forms: alpha (2 protons, 2 neutrons), beta (electron), and gamma (electromagnetic) rays. The radioactive elements seek to stabilize to lead, and their overall threat to the public can be measured through their half-lives.

Tools/Demonstration

Vales utilized his geiger counter to measure radioactivity. The following is a partial list of different objects he measured with his tools:

• Vaseline glass
• Fiestaware products
• Flower cases
• Phone pole cover
• Arium pills
• Uranium ore

These are just some of the things we got to see be measured. Further, he demonstrated the radioactivity with a UV flashlight. I had never known that so many household items gave off radiation decades ago. From thorium to radium, these manufacturers truly posed a threat to the general public. I’m certainly more grateful for government agencies today that protect against abusive consumer practices.

Conclusion

Vales’s demonstration was a great blend between providing the basic information needed to understand radiation and offering a real commentary on the usages of it. The discussion of radiation has always been centered around nuclear power plants and weapons, when not too long ago the threat was often in people’s homes! I am glad I got to listen to this eye-opening lecture!

BLOG ENTRY: Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster

BLOG ENTRY: Japanese Nuclear Power Incident

The Fukushima Accident was one of the most high-profile nuclear accidents in recent memory, and restarted the debate on the potential safety threats of aging nuclear reactors worldwide. Following an earthquake, a tsunami disabled power supply/cooling of three Fukushima Daiichi reactors. This caused a nuclear accident, because all three cores melted within three days.

The tsunami countermeasures that were put into place during the construction of the nuclear plant were seen as being satisfactory, given the research and knowledge at the time. However, despite increased awareness of the threat posted to the plant by 2011, action was still not taken by the plant owner (Tepco). Tsunami countermeasures could have been reviewed in accordance to IAEA standards, but the plant operator chose to continue operations as-is.

A more release of radionuclides, including some that are long lived, occurred in March. Much of this was due to a hydrogen explosion in one of the suppression chambers. While radiation has been reduced now, thousands had to be evacuated at the time due to health fears. The image above shows the radiation by the nuclear power plant, and the change in exposure from 2011 to 2012.

While the nuclear operator was criticized for the lack of updates on the facility, the evacuation plans were put together swiftly and implemented in a timely manner. The impact on human life was limited with the response. Above, a WNN image highlights the quick-changing evacuation measures put into place following the nuclear incident.

Moving beyond the disaster, which caused international concern about the future of nuclear energy, Japan has now recently approved the construction of another nuclear power plant. Japan’s nuclear regulatory agency has declared that atomic power plants are safe to operate. The government has stated that new nuclear power plants are subject to increased scrutiny of security protocol, despite concern from the general public about possible health risks in the future. Opponents of the restart said the agency was essentially overriding public opinion. Furthermore, many have asked for more independent agencies to review Japanese nuclear standards.

The restarting of nuclear reactors (one is shown above) in Japan is a reversal of the previous administration’s goal of having zero nuclear power in the near future. The new energy plan, which also calls for less “dependence” on nuclear power, calls for increased utilization of other renewable fuels. Over the next three years, the government will be more heavily supportive of solar and wind power. The energy plan was subject to criticism from political opponents due to what was called a lack of specifics. The plan did not include any percentage targets for how much solar or wind power should be deployed as part of the nation’s energy supply.

The cost of imported fuel into Japan has increased sharply (by almost 4 trillion yen), and this has added political pressure for the government (headed by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shown above) to focus on restarting nuclear power plants and decreasing reliance on international trade. The adoption of the new energy policy has been seen as a piece of a larger economic development plan, as the country still struggles to sustain stable economic growth. Growth will be partly fueled by decreasing energy costs, brightening the prospects for nuclear power in the future.

References:

http://www.world-nuclear.org/info/safety-and-security/safety-of-plants/fukushima-accident/

http://www.newscientist.com/special/fukushima-crisis

http://www.psr.org/environment-and-health/environmental-health-policy-institute/responses/costs-and-consequences-of-fukushima.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/11/world/asia/japanese-nuclear-plant-declared-safe-to-operate-for-first-time-since-fukushima-daiichi-disaster.html?_r=0

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/04/11/national/cabinet-oks-new-energy-policy-kills-no-nuclear-goal/#.VBL2e_ldX_M

BLOG ENTRY: Geothermal Energy in Iceland

BLOG ENTRY: Geothermal Energy in Iceland

Geothermal energy has been used for thousands of years in a wide range of countries. It’s power that is derived from the earth’s internal heat. This energy comes from under the earth’s crust, and it can be found from more shallow ground to many miles below the surface. The steam and hot water is often used to generate energy for homes and businesses.

Iceland is a leader in the utilization of geothermal energy to heat homes and fulfill electricity demands. Currently, 25% of the electricity production comes from geothermal sources. This is a big turnaround from the 20^th century, when Iceland was much more poor and imported vast amounts of coal from Europe for energy demands. In 2011, 84% of primary energy in Iceland came from renewable sources. Over 60% of that was geothermal energy.

Space heating is the main utilization of geothermal energy. Bathing, snow melting, and heat pumps are also key usages of the energy source. Iceland’s government has sponsored research into continuing to deploy more renewable energy to satisfy the country’s energy needs. Production in 2012 was 4,600 GWh.

Geothermal energy is being utilized by a wide range of industries in Iceland. Fish farming, industry, and recreational swimming uses make up smaller portions of the utilization of the fuel. On the other hand, as discussed earlier, space heating and electricity generation are key usages of the fuel source.

Interestingly enough, while the rapid implementation of the renewable fuel has garnered Iceland international praise, it has also created a lot of political tension. Many firms worldwide have grown interested in exporting the fuel source to countries like the UK, however many in the country oppose exporting the resource. A $1 billion dollar connector between the UK and Iceland was proposed to allow for the usage of the clean fuel in parts of that country, but only preliminary research has been completed thus far.

Geothermal energy as a whole offers many benefits. It can be extracted without signfiicantly damaging to the world’s climate system. Geothermal fields as a whole produce about 1/6^th the amount of carbon that other fuels emit. Furthermore, unlike solar and wind power, the energy is reliable and stable. Lastly, the fuel is relatively inexpensive. While other energy sources are undergoing expensive research, geothermal has proven to be a consistent and dependable energy supply for Iceland.

Expansion of geothermal energy usage is likely to continue, due to the research that was conducted by Iceland Deep Drilling Project. Researchers used magma to generate high-pressure steam, which was used to create usable energy. The project produced 36 megawatts of energy! This is the first time that molten magma, instead of solid rock, was used to generate energy. Many believe this research will make geothermal a viable alternative for many more countries in the future, as further advancements are made and costs continue to decline.

Resources:

http://www.nea.is/geothermal/

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/blog/post/2013/03/geothermal-energy-in-iceland-too-much-of-a-good-thing

http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/geothermal-profile/

http://waterfire.fas.is/GeothermalEnergy/GeothermalEnergy.php

http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/02/04/3241811/iceland-geothermal-magma-energy/

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/iceland-geothermal-power/

BLOG ENTRY: Stirling Engine/Peltier Device

BLOG ENTRY: Stirling Engine/Peltier Device

Stirling Engine

A stirling engine is a heat engine that operates via cyclic compression. An expansion of air/another gas at different temperatures causes a net conversion of heat energy to mechanical work. It was a rival to the steam engine, and was usually used for low-power domestic applications. With that said, it’s known for high efficiency when compared to other forms of steam engines.

Steps to a stirling engine:

1. Utilization of sealed cylinder with one part hot and another cold
2. Working gas inside the engine, which is usually helium/hydrogen/air, is moved from the hot side to the cold side
3. The gas on the hot side expands and pushes up a piston
4. Gas cools down on the cool side, contracting
5. Two power pulses per revolution supplies smooth energy supply

It’s able to use almost any heat source, which allows it to be compatible with a wide range of renewable fuels. This has become increasingly acknowledged as fuel costs of conventional fuels have risen.

The heat driving a stirling engine has to be transmitted from a heat source to working fluid. Each stirling engine system must have a heart source, a heat “sink,” and multiple heat exchangers. The heat source can be provided from combustion.

The key difference between this form of combustion and most other engines is that the stirling engine can run on fuels that would usually damage other engine internals. This is because the working fluid doesn’t have to come in contact with the heat source. Concentrated solar energy, nuclear energy, and geothermal energy have all been identified as uses for the stirling engine.

Despite its efficiency, the stirling engine isn’t widely used in vehicles because it’s difficult to start instantaneously. However, they still continue to have widespread use as cooling devices. If a machine is designed correctly, the stirling cooler can go as low as 10 degrees Kelvin. Micro stirling coolers have been produced for cooling infrared chips in night vision devices. Furthermore, stirling engines are still found in submarines. Expansion of their usage with greater utilization of renewable energy may be possible in the future.

Peltier Device

A Peltier device utilizes the “Peltier effect,” which is heating/cooling at an electrified crossing of two different conductors. As the current flows through the junction, heat may be generated/removed. Heat pumps utilize this concept, while thermoelectric cooling is found in refrigerators.

Steps to a thermoelectric cooler:

1. Implementation of the theory that heating and cooling effect occurs when electric current passes through two conductors.

2. Voltage is applied to the free ends of two different materials to create temperature difference

3. Peltier cooling causes heat to move from one end to another

4. As a DC current passes through one ore more pairs of elements from each side of the conductor, there is a decrease in temperature at the junction (cold side)

5. This causes an absorption of heat from the environment

6. Heat is carried through cooler by electron transport/released on opposite hot side

The thermoelectric effect is the conversation of temperature differences using electric voltage, as found in the devices mentioned prior. The effect can be used to generate electricity. The production of heat from electricity is called the Seebeck effect. The Seebeck effect can be reversed, when a direct current is sent through the circuit where two dissimilar conductors are joined. As stated in the steps, heating will take place at one of the junctions and cooling at the other.

In addition to the uses mentioned prior (heating and refrigerators), thermoelectric applications include temperature difference detection and thermal energy conversion. The coolers specifically can be used for applications that require heat removal. This can span from small amounts to several thousand watts! Both tools discussed have a wide range of modern uses, despite their creation several years ago!

References:

• http://web.archive.org/web/20080801212651/http://www.lanl.gov/mst/engine/
• http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/working_lunch/3231549.stm
• http://www.explainthatstuff.com/how-stirling-engines-work.html
• http://www.economist.com/news/science-and-technology/21590877-200-year-old-invention-may-last-be-ready-market-stirling-silver
• http://science.howstuffworks.com/thermoelectricity-info.htm
• http://www.stirlingengine.com/faq/#1
• http://www.marlow.com/resources/general-faq/6-how-do-thermoelectric-coolers-tecs-work.html