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Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy
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Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy

A special issue of Solar (ISSN 2673-9941).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2024) | Viewed by 28059

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Sungwoo Yang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA
Interests: concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP); solar thermal energy; energy-efficient windows; water harvesting; porous materials; transparent aerogel; solar decathlon
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The journal Solar (ISSN: 2673-9941) is announcing a Special Issue entitled “Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy.” Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source available. Photovoltaics (PV) are the most widely deployed solar electricity technology. Solar thermal technologies present their own advantages when paired with an inexpensive storage system and/or applying such technologies directly on various operations. The dominant end-use energy type, industrial and/or residential heating and cooling, presents tremendous solar thermal research opportunities for advancement of the energy intensive technologies that have become ubiquitous for modern life. This Special Issue of Solar on “Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy” aims to capture the latest research in the field of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, hybrid CSP/PV systems, solar carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion, solar thermal desalination, solar water heating, solar cooking systems, solar industrial process heat, solar disinfection, solar thermal agriculture, etc.

Dr. Sungwoo Yang
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Solar is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • solar thermal energy conversion
  • concentrated solar power (CSP) plants
  • hybrid CSP/PV system
  • solar carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion
  • solar thermal desalination
  • solar water heating
  • solar cooking system
  • solar industrial process heat
  • solar disinfection
  • solar thermal agriculture

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

22 pages, 7143 KiB  
Article
Numerical Modeling and Experimental Validation of Heat Transfer Characteristics in Small PTCs with Nonevacuated Receivers
by Amedeo Ebolese, Domenico Marano, Carlo Copeta, Agatino Bruno and Vincenzo Sabatelli
Solar 2023, 3(4), 544-565; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar3040030 - 12 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1764
Abstract
The development of small-sized parabolic trough collectors (PTCs) for processing heat production at medium temperatures (100–250 °C) represents an interesting approach to increase the utilization of solar thermal technologies in industrial applications. Thus, the development of simplified models to analyze and predict their [...] Read more.
The development of small-sized parabolic trough collectors (PTCs) for processing heat production at medium temperatures (100–250 °C) represents an interesting approach to increase the utilization of solar thermal technologies in industrial applications. Thus, the development of simplified models to analyze and predict their performance under different operative and climatic conditions is crucial for evaluating the application potential of this low-cost technology. In this paper, we present a numerical method that by combining three-dimensional finite element simulations (implemented with COMSOL Multiphysics software version 6.1) with a one-dimensional analysis (based on a MATLAB script) allows for the theoretical determination of the power output of a small-PTC with a nonevacuated tubular receiver operating at a medium temperature. The finite element model considers both the nonuniformity of the concentrated solar flux on the receiver tube (evaluated using Monte Carlo ray-tracing analysis) and the establishment of natural convection in the air gap between the glass envelope and absorber tube. The model calculates, for several values of direct normal irradiance (DNI) and inlet temperatures, the thermal power transferred to the heat transfer fluid (HTF) per unit length. The data are fitted using the multiple linear regression method, obtaining a function that is then used in a one-dimensional multi-nodal model to estimate the temperatures and the heat gains along the receiver tube. The outputs of the model are the outlet temperature and the total thermal power transferred to the HTF. In order to validate the developed methodology for the assessment of the heat transfer characteristics in the small-PTC with a nonevacuated receiver, an experiment at the ENEA Trisaia—Solar Thermal Collector Testing Laboratory was carried out. This work compares the theoretical data with those acquired through experimentation, obtaining a good agreement, with maximum differences of 0.2% and 3.6% for the outlet temperatures and the power outputs, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy)
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18 pages, 4926 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of Novel Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal Solar Collector under Quasi-Dynamic Conditions
by Sahand Hosouli, João Gomes, Muhammad Talha Jahangir and George Pius
Solar 2023, 3(2), 195-212; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar3020013 - 11 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3114
Abstract
Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal (CPVT) collectors are suitable for integration in limited roof space due to their higher solar conversion efficiency. Solar sunlight can be used more effectively by CPVT collectors in comparison to individual solar thermal collectors or PV modules. In this study, [...] Read more.
Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal (CPVT) collectors are suitable for integration in limited roof space due to their higher solar conversion efficiency. Solar sunlight can be used more effectively by CPVT collectors in comparison to individual solar thermal collectors or PV modules. In this study, the experimental investigation of a novel CPVT collector called a PC (power collector) has been carried out in real outdoor conditions, and the test set-up has been designed based on ISO 9806:2013. A quasi-dynamic testing method has been used because of the advantages that this method can offer for collectors with a unique construction, such as the proposed collector, over the steady-state testing method. With a quasi-dynamic testing method, it is possible to characterize the collector within a wide range of incidence angles and a complex incidence angle modifier profile. The proposed novel collector has a gross area of 2.57 m2. A maximum power output per collector unit area of 1140 W is found at 0 °C reduced temperature (1000 W/m2 irradiance level), while at a higher reduced temperature (70 °C), it drops down to 510 W for the same irradiance level. The data have been fitted through a multiple linear regression method, and the obtained efficiency curve coefficients are 0.39, 0.192, 1.294, 0.023, 0.2, 0, −5929 and 0 for Kθd, b0, c1, c2, c3, c4, c5 and c6, respectively. The experimental characterization carried out on the collector proved that the output powers calculated by using the obtained parameters of the quasi-dynamic testing method are in good agreement with experimental points. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy)
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29 pages, 4046 KiB  
Article
Economic Feasibility of Thermal Energy Storage-Integrated Concentrating Solar Power Plants
by Darsha Jayathunga, Jinendrika Anushi Weliwita, Hirushie Karunathilake and Sanjeeva Witharana
Solar 2023, 3(1), 132-160; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar3010010 - 8 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5376
Abstract
Concentrating solar power (CSP) is a high-potential renewable energy source that can leverage various thermal applications. CSP plant development has therefore become a global trend. However, the designing of a CSP plant for a given solar resource condition and financial situation is still [...] Read more.
Concentrating solar power (CSP) is a high-potential renewable energy source that can leverage various thermal applications. CSP plant development has therefore become a global trend. However, the designing of a CSP plant for a given solar resource condition and financial situation is still a work in progress. This study aims to develop a mathematical model to analyze the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of Thermal Energy Storage (TES)-integrated CSP plants in such circumstances. The developed model presents an LCOE variation for 18 different CSP configurations with TES incorporated for Rankine, Brayton, and combined power generation cycles, under regular TES materials and nano-enhanced TES materials. The model then recommends the most economical CSP plant arrangement. Within the scope of this study, it was found that the best configuration for electricity generation is a solar power tower with nano-enhanced phase change materials as the latent heat thermal energy storage medium that runs on the combined cycle. This returns an LCOE of 7.63 ct/kWh with a 22.70% CSP plant efficiency. The most favorable option in 50 MW plants is the combined cycle with a regular TES medium, which has an LCOE of 7.72 ct/kWh with a 22.14% CSP plant efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy)
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Graphical abstract

19 pages, 4954 KiB  
Article
Materials Based on Amorphous Al2O3 and Composite W-Al2O3 for Solar Coatings Deposited by High-Rate Sputter Processes
by Claudia Diletto, Antonio D’Angelo, Salvatore Esposito, Antonio Guglielmo, Daniele Mirabile Gattia and Michela Lanchi
Solar 2023, 3(1), 113-131; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar3010009 - 6 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2380
Abstract
In parabolic trough technology, the development of thermally and structurally stable solar coatings plays a key role in determining the efficiency, durability, and economic feasibility of tube receivers. A cermet-based solar coating is typically constituted by a thin film stratification, where a multilayer [...] Read more.
In parabolic trough technology, the development of thermally and structurally stable solar coatings plays a key role in determining the efficiency, durability, and economic feasibility of tube receivers. A cermet-based solar coating is typically constituted by a thin film stratification, where a multilayer graded cermet is placed between an infrared metallic reflector and an antireflection filter. This work reports the realization of materials based on Al2O3 and W characterized by high structural and chemical stability in vacuum at high temperature, obtained through the optimization of high-deposition-rate processes. Al2O3 material, employed as the antireflection layer, was deposited through a reactive magnetron sputtering process at a high deposition rate. Cermet materials based on W-Al2O3 were deposited and employed as absorber layers by implementing reactive magnetron co-sputtering processes. An investigation into the stability of the realized samples was carried out by means of several material characterization methods before and after the annealing process in vacuum (1 × 10−3 Pa) at high temperature (620 °C). The structural properties of the samples were evaluated using Raman spectroscopy and XRD measurements, revealing a negligible presence of oxides that can compromise the structural stability. Spectrophotometric analysis showed little variations between the deposited and annealed samples, clearly indicating the high structural stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy)
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19 pages, 2611 KiB  
Article
Rooftop PV or Hybrid Systems and Retrofitted Low-E Coated Windows for Energywise and Self-Sustainable School Buildings in Bangladesh
by Mohammad Nur-E-Alam, Mohammad Khairul Basher, Iftekharuzzaman, Kazi Zehad Mostofa, Mohammad Aminul Islam, A. H. M. Ahashanul Haque and Narottam Das
Solar 2022, 2(4), 540-558; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar2040032 - 16 Nov 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3630
Abstract
The electricity crisis is a common issue in Bangladesh; however, recently the electricity scenario has been getting worse due to various reasons including power generation and distribution all over the country. Meanwhile, the large number of people requires a huge amount of energy [...] Read more.
The electricity crisis is a common issue in Bangladesh; however, recently the electricity scenario has been getting worse due to various reasons including power generation and distribution all over the country. Meanwhile, the large number of people requires a huge amount of energy which is not possible to be met by the national grid due to the limited power generation from different plants. Among all renewable energy sources, the solar photovoltaics (PV) system is the best choice as a generation source, either off-grid or with a grid-tied connection, to reduce the pressure on the national grid. In Bangladesh, there are more than 175,000 schools, and it is possible to generate a huge amount of renewable (solar) power to supply all the schools by using rooftop PV systems. We propose a new approach that combines solar energy harvesting and savings to make the schools self-sufficient and energywise. We performed a Hybrid Optimization Model for Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) pro simulation and find that it was possible to generate approximately 200 megawatts (MW) of power. We conducted a feasibility study on generating power from rooftop PV systems on school buildings and reduced the power consumption using retrofitted thin-film-coated glass by around 16–20% per day depending on the school size, which can help the national power grid system by either making all the schools off-grid or grid-connected to supply power to the national grid. In addition, we perform a HelioScope simulation to investigate the maximum upscaling of PV sizing for the rooftops of school buildings in Bangladesh to realize how to make each school a mini solar power station in the future. The HelioScope simulation performance showed that it was possible to generate approximately 96,993 kWh per year from one school building. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy)
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Graphical abstract

14 pages, 3324 KiB  
Article
Design of a Friendly Solar Food Dryer for Domestic Over-Production
by Lisete Fernandes, José R. Fernandes and Pedro B. Tavares
Solar 2022, 2(4), 495-508; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar2040029 - 1 Nov 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 8561
Abstract
Solar drying is one of the many ways of efficiently making use of solar energy to meet the human demand for improved sustainability. In this study, we describe the construction and testing of two indirect solar dryer prototypes, especially designed for vegetables and [...] Read more.
Solar drying is one of the many ways of efficiently making use of solar energy to meet the human demand for improved sustainability. In this study, we describe the construction and testing of two indirect solar dryer prototypes, especially designed for vegetables and fruits. The dryers had two compartments: a solar panel and a drying chamber. The dryers were mainly made of wood (Prototype 1) and styrofoam (Prototype 2) and both used recycled aluminum cans. The calculated yield of solar panels was 82% and 77% for Prototype 1 and 2, respectively. The drying tests performed with different fresh products showed that it was possible to dry all of them until less than 10% of their initial weight, at different times, depending on the type of product. As regards the apple slices, the solar dryers were able to remove 95.7% and 95.0% of initial moisture on a wet basis for Prototype 1 and 2, respectively. Comparative tests were conducted with an electric commercial dryer using the same product to explore the drying dynamics and costs. The cost of the final dry product, excluding the purchase of fresh goods, was 6.83 €/kg for the electric dryer, 1.78 €/kg for Prototype 1 and 1.72 €/kg for Prototype 2. Dehydrated apple slices are currently available on the market for around 34.50 €/kg. Our solar dryers can dry quality products at a very low cost for their entire life span, which allows them to compete with electric systems to prevent food waste in a cheaper and environmentally friendly way. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Solar Thermal Energy)
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