Journal Club Theme of February 2014: Energy Challenges and Mechanics

Since James Watt, a Scottish inventor, improve the efficiency of steam engine, human civilization relies more and more on a steady supply of energy. The re-rise as an international superpower and the global energy crisis are challenging China and the world. We are at a transitional age. On the one hand, we see the technology advances in exploration and development of oil and gas, a depleting resource; and the growth in handling ageing and decommissioning. On the other hand, we see ideas and plans for new energy structure in the future.

The discussions here relate to a conference I am chairing, the International Symposium on Energy Challenges and Mechanics, held in this summer at Aberdeen, Scotland, the energy capital of Europe. This theme is about energy challenges and the role of mechanics as a means for seeking solutions, involving multiple disciplines in technology, science and management. The topics include both fossil fuels and many different forms of renewable energy. In addition, we will discuss the role of mechanics in issues related to energy efficiency, safety and environment.

The discussion sessions developed include:

I. Fossil fuels related

• Reservoir simulation
• Reservoir stimulation and production
• Subsea engineering
• Subsea integrity
• Drilling process and technology

II. Renewable energy related

• Marine energy
• Bioenergy
• Wind energy
• Photovoltaics
• Flexible solar cells
• Numerical and experimental research on the durability of photovoltaic modules
• Hydropower and dam engineering
• Lithium ion batteries
• Energy storage
• Energy harvesting
• Fuel cells
• Nano-energy
• Energy and superconductivity
• Graphene-based nanotechnology for energy applications
• Porous materials and structures for energy applications
• New energy vehicles

III. Energy efficiency, safety and environment

• Energy and environment
• Thermal barrier coatings for energy efficient engines
• Carbon dioxide capture and utilization
• Nuclear energy

IV. General

• Energy future
• Material simulation for energy applications
• Energy conversion and fuels
• Training for the Energy Industry