Heat-driven thermoacoustic refrigeration: A comprehensive review of technologies, applications, trends and challenges

Heat-driven thermoacoustic refrigerators (HDTARs) are not widely utilized in the refrigeration industry despite their high potential to utilize medium- and high-grade heat sources for cooling purposes. However, the current scenario of diminishing energy reservoirs and escalating environmental concerns has highlighted the necessity for pioneering refrigeration and heat pump technologies such as HDTAR that can reduce carbon emissions and energy usage. Thermoacoustic refrigeration is recognized as a promising solution in the quest for environmentally friendly technology due to the absence of detrimental refrigerants in the system. This article examines the extensive body of research dedicated to exploring and improving HDTAR systems. A primary focus is placed on categorizing HDTAR according to their diverse configurations and essential performance factors, enabling a thorough understanding of the technological progress, limitations, and potential real-world applications of these innovative refrigeration systems. By systematically classifying HDTAR configurations, this analysis provides valuable insights into the state-of-the-art in the field, the challenges that need to be addressed, and the various practical uses to which these systems can be applied. Each configuration is meticulously examined to uncover the underlying fundamental principles that govern their operation, the unique characteristics that define their performance, the innovative design strategies employed, the wide-ranging applications they can serve, the current trends shaping their development, the obstacles they encounter, and the promising future prospects that lie ahead. Through this detailed exploration, readers will gain a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the intricate landscape of the HDTAR technology.