Durability and Thermal Fatigue Behavior of Hybrid Composite Sandwich Panels in Concentrated Solar Power Applications

Hybrid composite sandwich panels (HCSPs) have emerged as promising structural elements in Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems due to their lightweight nature, high strength-to-weight ratio, and potential for thermal insulation. However, their performance under the cyclic thermal loading inherent in CSP environments remains inadequately understood. This study investigates the durability and thermal fatigue behavior of HCSPs, focusing on their mechanical performance under simulated CSP operating conditions. Experimental evaluations were conducted using a combination of thermal cycling tests and mechanical loading to simulate the operational environment of CSP systems. The results indicate that HCSPs exhibit significant degradation in mechanical properties after exposure to thermal cycling, with observed delamination and core material degradation contributing to the overall failure. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations corroborated these findings, highlighting critical stress concentrations and potential failure points within the sandwich structure. The study also explores the influence of core material composition and face sheet materials on the thermal fatigue resistance of HCSPs. The findings underscore the necessity for optimized material selection and design modifications to enhance the longevity and reliability of HCSPs in CSP applications. Recommendations for future research include the exploration of advanced hybrid materials and protective coatings to mitigate thermal-induced degradation. This research contributes to the advancement of HCSPs as viable components in CSP systems, aiming to improve their performance and service life in high-temperature environments.