Key research themes
1. How can heat pump system design and technology be optimized to enhance energy efficiency and integrate renewable energy sources in residential and building applications?
This research area focuses on the design, selection, and technological innovations in heat pump systems targeting improved energy efficiency, enhanced integration with renewable energy sources (e.g., solar PV, geothermal heat), and support for net-zero energy buildings (NZEB). It addresses challenges related to refrigerant selection, system architecture, and operational controls to maximize performance and sustainability in residential and commercial buildings.
2. What are the design principles and performance characteristics of high-temperature heat pumps for industrial and district heating applications?
This theme investigates the development, thermodynamic cycles, and system integration of high-temperature heat pumps (HTHPs) that can deliver heating at elevated temperatures suitable for district heating and industrial processes. It explores cycle configurations, refrigerant use, and practical performance data to identify configurations achieving high coefficients of performance (COP) and enabling decarbonization of heating sectors traditionally dominated by fossil fuel boilers.
3. What diagnostic and control strategies can improve operational reliability, fault detection, and performance optimization of heat pump systems?
Research in this theme targets fault diagnosis, maintenance strategies, and advanced control methods including AI, predictive control, and optimization to prolong heat pump lifespan, prevent failures, reduce downtime, and improve real-time operational efficiency. It covers both component-level fault detection as well as system-level control developments for achieving flexible demand response and integrating intermittent renewable energy while ensuring stable thermal comfort.