Patent · US Expired

Energy production from solar ponds

US4063419A · kind A · utility

31Cited by
6References
31Claims
0Family size

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateNov 12, 1976
Grant dateDec 20, 1977
Priority date
Expiry dateNov 12, 1996

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10S126/908
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A method for obtaining solar energy in a useful form by utilizing solar ponds, the method comprising direct or indirect contact of hot liquid from the pond with a low boiling point immiscible working fluid for transfer of the heat energy from the liquid to the working fluid. Subsequently, the heated working fluid is separated from the liquid and flash evaporated to provide hot high pressure vapors which are led to a turbine or similar working device to produce electricity. The spent vapors are thereafter condensed and reused in the system. The solar ponds employ a covering agent to minimize evaporation of the liquid and thus provide for a maximum internal heat building. Additionally, light absorbing dyes may be added to the pond liquid to improve solar absorbing efficiency. The pond liquids may alternatively be used for a medium thermal requirement process or supplying heat source for a building structure.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.