Is the engine Andrew Porter describes in his comments on thermodynamics (
Letters, 12 February) two-stage?
The efficiency of a single-stage thermodynamic engine cannot exceed the Carnot value, which is only a function of the temperature difference — at most 50 per cent for current technologies/materials.
Anyway, we should be seeking efficient engines to burn hydrogen or otherwise use it in a fuel cell, in anticipation of wider use of this energy source. We also need safe methods of storing and retrieving the gas.
J Gray, Warks
Invinity to build 20MWh flow battery in UK
A surprising comment for someone who (I think you´ve said in the past) worked in the industry. National Grid have a variety of reserve service schemes...