Hydrogen production using hybrid six-step copper-chlorine thermochemical cycle: Energy and exergy analyses.

The hybrid thermochemical copper-chlorine (Cu–Cl) cycle for water splitting, developed as a novel approach to produce green hydrogen, has gained greater attention. A series of close-loop reactions makes the process environmentally friendly. A newly developed hybrid six-step Cu–Cl cycle consists of thermochemical, electrochemical, and a unit operation of spray drying. The present paper analyzes the configuration of the six-step Cu–Cl cycle thermodynamically. Studies on many factors are carried out to determine the cycle's total energy and exergy efficiency. The modeling and simulation of the six-step process was done by Aspen Plus. The six-step cycle was found to have an energy and exergy efficiency of 38.94 % and 52.74 %, respectively. The effect on exergetic efficiency with ambient temperature and cycle temperature variation was also investigated. The enhancement in the effectiveness of six steps Cu–Cl cycle could be possible from the current study analysis using thermal recovery and minimizing exergy destructions. [Display omitted] • Thermodynamic evaluation of novel ICT-OEC copper-chlorine thermochemical cycle. • An investigation based on mass, energy, and exergy balances. • The energy and exergy efficiency of the overall system is 38.94 % and 52.74%, respectively. • The hydrogen production rate of the system is 0.002 kg/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]