Technologies for Solar Thermal Energy: Theory, Design and, Optimization

Technologies for Solar Thermal Energy: Theory, Design, and Optimization is a comprehensive book that covers industrial process heat and thermal power generation, including power cycles, advantages, and design methods. It is valuable for lecturers, students, researchers, and engineers in the field of solar thermal energy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2022
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

Solar thermal energy technologies encompass a wide range of concepts and applications, from the theoretical foundations to the practical design and optimization of industrial process heat and thermal power generation systems. This comprehensive book delves into the intricate details of solar thermal energy, covering topics such as power cycles, comparison analysis, advantages, energy storage technologies, working materials, and the design methodology of solar thermal power plants. With its extensive coverage, Technologies for Solar Thermal Energy: Theory, Design, and Optimization serves as a valuable resource for lecturers, postgraduate and undergraduate students, as well as researchers and engineers seeking to advance their knowledge and conduct research in the field of solar thermal energy.

The book begins by introducing the fundamental principles of solar thermal energy, including the conversion of solar radiation into heat and the various power cycles employed in solar thermal power plants. It then explores the different types of solar collectors, such as flat plate collectors, concentrating collectors, and hybrid collectors, and their respective characteristics and performance. The book also discusses the design and optimization of solar thermal power plants, including factors such as heat exchanger design, thermal storage systems, and power conditioning equipment.

One of the key advantages of solar thermal energy is its ability to provide a continuous and stable source of power. Unlike photovoltaic systems, which rely on sunlight availability, solar thermal power plants can operate during daylight hours and even on cloudy days. This makes solar thermal energy an ideal solution for regions with high solar radiation and low cloud cover, such as desert areas and countries with abundant sunshine.

Another advantage of solar thermal energy is its high efficiency. Solar thermal power plants can convert up to 70% of the solar radiation into usable heat, making them more efficient than traditional fossil fuel-based power plants. This high efficiency translates into lower operating costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, making solar thermal energy a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional energy sources.

In addition to its advantages, solar thermal energy also faces several challenges. One of the main challenges is the high initial cost of installing solar thermal power plants. The cost of solar collectors, heat exchangers, and other equipment can be significant, making it difficult for some industries and communities to adopt solar thermal energy. However, as technology advances and the demand for clean and renewable energy increases, the cost of solar thermal energy is expected to decrease, making it more accessible and affordable.

Another challenge is the storage of excess heat generated during peak solar hours. Solar thermal power plants can generate significant amounts of heat during the day, but it may not be necessary or desirable to use this heat immediately. Therefore, efficient storage systems are required to store this heat and use it during periods of low solar radiation or high electricity demand.

To address these challenges, researchers and engineers are continuously developing new technologies and solutions for solar thermal energy. One promising technology is the use of thermal energy storage (TES) systems, such as hot water tanks, molten salt tanks, or solid-state storage systems. TES systems can store excess heat generated during peak solar hours and use it to generate electricity during periods of low solar radiation or high electricity demand.

In conclusion, Technologies for Solar Thermal Energy: Theory, Design, and Optimization provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of solar thermal energy technologies. It covers the theoretical foundations, practical design considerations, performance analysis, and economic assessments of solar thermal power plants. With its extensive coverage and valuable insights, the book serves as a valuable resource for lecturers, postgraduate and undergraduate students, researchers, and engineers seeking to advance their knowledge and contribute to the development of solar thermal energy as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional energy sources.

Weight: 630g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780128239599