Toward Green and Reliable Energy Systems Using Metal Fuels

Metal fuels, such as aluminum, magnesium, and iron, have garnered significant attention as alternative energy carriers for power generation systems due to their high energy density, abundance, and carbon-free combustion products. Their applications in power systems span a range of innovative technologies, from metal-air batteries to direct combustion in advanced thermochemical cycles. Metal fuels offer key potential to enhance both efficiency and sustainability of power generation by providing a renewable, non-intermittent energy source with capability for high-temperature operation and integration with existing infrastructure. Additionally, they present a promising solution for addressing energy storage challenges, especially in regions where renewable energy sources like solar and wind are abundant but intermittent. This paper explores diverse applications of metal fuels in power systems, emphasizing their role in energy storage, hybrid power plants, and high-performance thermal cycles. It also discusses main challenges associated with their adoption, including fuel processing, efficiency optimization, and environmental impact considerations, and suggests potential pathways for future research and technological advancements.

کلیدواژه ها:

Green combustion ، metal fuels ، energy security ، carbon-free energy systems ، sustainable development