Microreactors: 'micro'managing our macro energy demands. Issue 3 (20th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rossi, Olivia; Chandrasekaran, Arvind
• Is Part Of: International journal of energy sector management. Volume 13:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: 590
• Page End: 596
• Publication Date: 2018-12-20
• Subjects: Microreactors -- Innovation -- Manufacturing industry -- Energy production -- Biofuels -- Renewable energies -- Chemical engineering models -- Optimisation; Energy industries -- Management -- Periodicals; 333.79068
• DOI: 10.1108/IJESM-10-2018-0009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1750-6220

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to answer this question by discussing the practicality of implementing microreactor technology towards large-scale renewable energy generation, as well as provide an incentive for future researchers to utilize microreactors as a useful alternative tool for green energy production. However, can microreactors present a viable solution for the generation of renewable energy to tackle the on-going global energy crisis? Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, the practicality of implementing microreactor technology toward large-scale renewable energy generation is discussed. Specific areas of interest that elucidate considerable returns of microreactors toward renewable energy production are biofuel synthesis, hydrogen conversion and solar energy harvesting. Findings: It is believed that sustained research on microreactors can significantly accelerate the development of new energy production methods through renewable sources, which will undoubtedly aid in the quest for a greener future. Originality/value: This work aims to provide a sound judgement on the importance of research on renewable energy production and alternative energy management methods through microreactor technology, and why future studies on this topic should be highly encouraged. The relevance of this opinion paper lies in the idea that microreactors are an innovative concept currently used in engineering to significantly accelerate chemical reactions on microscale volumes; with the feasibility of high throughput to convert energy at larger scales with much greater efficiency than existing energy production methods.