TEHRAN - A research by the Iranian scientists at Niroo Research Institute shows that the use of nanotechnology in thermal power plants can increase the efficiency of electricity generation by 30 percent.
Also, the study showed that the use of artificial intelligence in these power plants reduces fuel consumption and the amount of pollutants by 40 percent.
“The use of nanostructured insulators like silica aerogels and advanced nanocomposites significantly reduces heat losses in power plants. These insulators, which are lightweight and resistant to high temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Celsius, reduce maintenance and repair costs and increase the durability of equipment,” said Majid Mirzayee, the deputy director of the Specialized Center for Innovation and Development of Nanotechnology at Niroo Research Institute.
He underlined the role of nanocatalysts and membrane nanofilters in refining diesel fuel, and said, “Nanocatalysts and membrane nanofilters reduce the emission of harmful gases and suspended particles by removing sulfur compounds and heavy metals. Fuel nanoemulsions also increase thermal efficiency by improving the combustion process and reduce the amount of soot and pollutants by up to 40 percent.” Mirzayee also pointed to the use of resistant nanocoatings on turbine blades, compressors and boilers, saying, “These nanocoatings increase resistance to corrosion, wear and heat and prevent premature destruction. Nanofluids also help increase efficiency and reduce resource consumption by improving heat transfer in exchangers and nanofilters by purifying inlet air and cooling water.”
Relevant reports in August also said that nanobubble technology is used as a new solution to significantly reduce energy consumption in treatment plants, since this technology, by reducing electricity consumption by 50% in Iran, not only decreases costs, but also helps the country’s electricity grid to remain stable.
Nanobubble technology, which has been developed in the world for less than 10 years, has now been indigenized in Iran by domestic experts and is used in various sectors of the country’s water and wastewater industry.
By producing ultra-fine bubbles on a nanoscale, this technology optimizes the water and wastewater treatment process and reduces electricity consumption by up to 50%. Reducing energy consumption, reducing water consumption, reducing the use of chemicals, and increasing efficiency are among its most important benefits.
According to the director of the Nanobubble Technology Development Program at the Special Headquarters for Nanotechnology Development, this technology is now being implemented in urban, industrial, and even drinking water treatment plants and plays an important role in energy efficiency in the country’s water sector.
This important achievement has also been welcomed by executive agencies and large industries, and successful examples of its implementation have been reported in various cities.