High Efficiency Energy Conversion Systems for Liquid Nitrogen Automobiles

Abstract

This investigation of the use of cryogens as energy storage media for zero emission vehicles has found that using liquid nitrogen to liquefy the working fluids of one or more closed Rankine power cycles can be an effective means for increasing motive power. System configurations are presented which can realize a specific energy greater than 400 kJ/kg-LN2 (110 W-hr/kg-LN2) without relying on isothermal expanders. A zero emission vehicle utilizing such a propulsion system would have an energy storage reservoir that can be refilled in a matter of minutes and a range comparable to that of a conventional automobile