Exergy Analysis, Entropy Generation Minimization, and the Constructal Law

This chapter reviews three methods that account for much of the newer work in engineering thermodynamics and thermal design and optimization. The method of exergy analysis rests on thermodynamics alone. Entropy generation minimization (EGM) is a method of modeling and optimization. The search for design is being pursued on the basis of principle, the constructal law, which is the statement that as configurations changes on the designer's table the ones that survive are those that offer greater access to currents. The modeling and optimization progress made in EGM is illustrated by some of the simplest and most fundamental results of the method. The generation of power and refrigeration based on energy from the sun has been the subject of some of the oldest EGM studies, which now cover a wide territory. There are several EGM models and optima of power plants that have fundamental implications.

Duke Scholars

Author Adrian Bejan Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materia ...