Multi-objective optimization of Binary Flashing Cycle (BFC) driven by geothermal energy

The binary flashing cycle (BFC) has been demonstrated to be a promising technology for geothermal energy utilization due to higher net power output. Considering both thermodynamic and economic factor simultaneously, the multi-objective optimization on the BFC has been investigated using non-dominated sorting algorithm-II. Two conflicting objectives including net power output and heat exchanger area of the system are taken into account to build a set of Pareto optimal solutions. The results show that the system achieve the maximum net power output with maximum heat exchanger area, and the minimum net power output with the minimum heat exchanger area. The relationships between the net power output and heat exchanger area in the Pareto frontier solution are fitted. TOPSIS method (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Situation) is applied to select the final solution on the Pareto frontier. The effects of weight factor for net power output on the objectives and decision variables have also been investigated, which are good references to the decision makers. The recommended weight factor for net power output is in the range of 0.1-0.6