This book investigates the unique hydrodynamics and heat transfer problems that are encountered in the vicinity of the critical point of fluids. Emphasis is given on weightlessness conditions, gravity effects and thermovibrational phenomena. Near their critical point, fluids indeed obey universal behavior and become very compressible and expandable. Their comportment, when gravity effects are suppressed, becomes quite unusual. The problems that are treated in this book are of interest to students and researchers interested in the original behavior of near-critical fluids as well as to engineers that have to manage supercritical fluids. A special chapter is dedicated to the present knowledge of critical point phenomena. Specific data for many fluids are provided, ranging from cryogenics (hydrogen) to high temperature (water). Basic information in statistical mechanics, mathematics and measurement techniques is also included. The basic concepts of fluid mechanics are given for the non-specialists to be able to read the parts he is interested in. Asymptotic theory of heat transfer by thermoacoustic processes is provided with enough details for PhD students or researchers and engineers to begin in the field. Key spaces are described in details, with many comparisons between theory and experiments to illustrate the topics.

Supercritical fluids are increasingly being used in energy conversion and fluid dynamics studies for energy-related systems and applications. These new applications are contributing to both the increase of energy efficiency as well as greenhouse gas reduction. Such research is critical for scientific advancement and industrial innovations that can support environmentally friendly strategies for sustainable energy systems. The Handbook of Research on Advancements in Supercritical Fluids Applications for Sustainable Energy Systems is a comprehensive two-volume reference that covers the most recent and challenging issues and outlooks for the applications and innovations of supercritical fluids. The book first converts basic thermo-dynamic behaviors and “abnormal” properties from a thermophysical aspect, then basic heat transfer and flow properties, recent new findings of its physical aspect and indications, chemical engineering properties, micro-nano-scale phenomena, and transient behaviors in fast and critical environments. It is ideal for engineers, energy companies, environmentalists, researchers, academicians, and students studying supercritical fluids and their applications for creating sustainable energy systems.

Supercritical fluids have been utilized for numerous scientific advancements and industrial innovations. As the concern for environmental sustainability grows, these fluids have been increasingly used for energy efficiency purposes. Advanced Applications of Supercritical Fluids in Energy Systems is a pivotal reference source for the latest academic material on the integration of supercritical fluids into contemporary energy-related applications. Highlighting innovative discussions on topics such as renewable energy, fluid dynamics, and heat and mass transfer, this book is ideally designed for researchers, academics, professionals, graduate students, and practitioners interested in the latest trends in energy conversion.