Title: A comprehensive review on advanced exergy, exergoeconomic, and exergoenvironmental analyses for sustainable thermal energy systems

Authors: Uchenna G. Azubuike; Howard O. Njoku; Onyemaechi V. Ekechukwu; Tien-Chien Jen

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 410001, Nigeria ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 410001, Nigeria ' Department of Mechanical Engineering Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract: Advanced exergy, exergoeconomic, and exergoenvironmental analysis (A3E) address weaknesses in conventional exergy, exergoeconomic, and exergoenvironmental methods (C3E) by evaluating system interactions and improvements. This review highlights the limited application of A3E analysis in thermal systems, with fewer than 15% incorporating these techniques. Studies on endogenous exergy destruction remain scarce, and A3E assessments are lacking. To ensure sustainability, the economic and environmental impacts of exergy destruction must be evaluated. Further research is needed, particularly in thermal power plants and other thermal systems, to enhance the application of A3E analysis.

Keywords: exergy analysis; advanced exergy analysis; exergoeconomic analysis; advanced exergoeconomic analysis; exergoenvironmental analysis; advanced exergoenvironmental analysis; thermal systems; sustainable energy systems.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEX.2025.148556

International Journal of Exergy, 2025 Vol.48 No.1, pp.16 - 53

Received: 21 Dec 2024
Accepted: 10 Jun 2025
Published online: 11 Sep 2025 *

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