The examination consists of a written test including 4 theoretical questions (open-ended responses; grade in 30/30; minimum passing grade 18/30). Maximum duration is 2h 30 m.
The score assigned to each question is given in the exam text.
The first part of the course covers the off-design operation of major power generation plants of different size, including: Simple cycle gas turbine, Combined cycle gas turbine, Internal combustion engines, Micro-gas turbines. The effects on performance due to changes in: 1.1) ambient conditions 1.2) electrical load are evaluated according to possible control strategies in order to maximize efficiency.
The second part of the course is devoted to decarbonization and fuel flexibility. 2.1) Chemical-physical properties, production and use of hydrogen: fuel cells, Power to Gas. 2.2) Use of alternative solid fuels, such as biomass and municipal solid waste, for electric and thermal power generation: - chemical-physical characterization: char, volatile compounds, ash - combustion - gasification - pyrolysis; - technologies for flue gas/syngas cleanup; - full energy chain comparisons. 2.3) Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) plants with carbon dioxide capture and sequestration (hints).
