A novel solar-powered closed-Brayton-cycle and thermoelectric generator integrated energy system with thermal storage for lunar base: Modeling and analysis

• Published in: Energy (Oxford) 2025-02, Vol.317, p.134715, Article 134715
• Main Authors: Cheng, Kunlin, Li, Jiahui, Liu, Zekuan, Pan, Wente, Qin, Jiang, Jing, Wuxing
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Closed-Brayton-cycle; Lunar base; Power generation; Thermal storage; Thermoelectric generator
• ISSN: 0360-5442
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.134715

One of the most important preconditions for the construction and operation of lunar base is the sufficient energy supply. In this paper, a novel solar-powered closed-Brayton-cycle and thermoelectric generator (CBC-TEG) integrated energy system coupling with in-situ thermal storage is proposed for the lunar base, and the according performance assessment model including a Daytime mode and two Nighttime modes, are established. Results indicate that the optimal compressor pressure ratio (πC) for total power generation efficiency decreases with the inlet temperature of compressor (T1), and a reasonable T1 is necessary to balance the power, efficiency, optimal πC and the required radiator area. For the operation strategy of constant thermal storage unit (TSU) temperature drop at moon nighttime, the total power generation efficiency of Daytime mode is as high as 35.83 %, but the change of efficiency and radiator area is too dramatic. When the energy system operates at a constant radiator area, it should store more heat into TSU, rather than convert heat into electricity during the lunar daytime, to maintain a continuous running of CBC-TEG at the nighttime. This research provides an innovative solution for the all-day electricity supply of lunar base. •A solar-powered CBC-TEG integrated energy system coupling with TSU is proposed.•Optimal πC for total power generation efficiency decreases with T1.•The total power generation efficiency of Daytime mode is as high as 35.83 %.•The radiator area change is too dramatic for constant TSU temperature drop.•It should store more heat into TSU for continuous running with constant radiator area.