Innovative approaches to waste heat recovery: reclaiming heat for sustainable industrial efficiency
摘要
The aim of this research is to present an in-depth and comparative analysis of both established and new waste heat recovery (WHR) methods in order to determine practical methods for improving industrial processes’ sustainability and energy efficiency. In manufacturing sectors like cement, steel, and chemical manufacturing, the study assesses important WHR techniques using a systematic analytical approach, such as heat exchangers, organic Rankine cycles (ORCs), thermoelectric generators (TEGs), and phase-change materials (PCMs). The research is innovative because it identifies gaps in the scaling and policies of existing systems while integrating contemporary developments like hybrid designs, nanotechnology-enhanced systems, and data-driven optimization strategies. The results demonstrate that properly installed WHR systems may significantly decrease carbon emissions and industrial energy use by 20–30%. Widespread adoption is nevertheless constrained by obstacles such as high upfront costs, problems with system integration, and upkeep needs. In order to fully realize the promise of WHR technologies across a range of industrial applications, the study provides a roadmap for future development and research, highlighting the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting government.