SUMMARY

A physics-based one-dimensional model of a direct contact heat exchanger (DCHX) suitable for a central receiver power tower (CRPT) particle heating receiver (PHR) based concentrated solar power (CSP) system is developed and compared with experimental data and results from the literature. The research reviewed CRPT systems, including molten salt, direct gas, and particle heating. Alternative particle-to-fluid heat exchanger (PFHX) concepts are reviewed, including various alternative DCHX designs. This research further explored the falling particle DCHX and its performance. A one-dimensional model for a particle-to-fluid DCHX is developed using equation-solving software to simulate this heat exchanger’s thermal and fluid behavior. Literature research on the available high-temperature materials and alloys, which could be used to manufacture the heat exchanger’s body that operates at very high temperatures and moderate pressure, has been conducted to support the development of a cost-effective design and reported. The thermal and fluid dynamical performance is reported, including the overall heat transfer coefficient, the particle and air temperatures and velocities, and the inlet and outlet air pressures. The results of some parametric studies considering different particle diameters and inlet temperatures will be reported. Details of the recommended design will also be reported.