Conventional energy sources, such as fossil fuels (oil, gas, coal), nuclear energy, and hydroelectric power, have historically been the primary components of energy systems. However, due to increasing environmental challenges and the decreasing availability of fossil fuels, solar energy presents a compelling alternative. The thermal efficiency of solar thermal collection systems is greatly dependent on their capacity to absorb and emit sunlight. This study targets the development of solar thermal receivers based on aerogels for maximizing the thermal efficiency of parabolic trough collectors (PTC) and reducing thermal losses. An advanced optical-thermal model is employed to study the performance parameters of different receiver designs. The findings indicate that aerogel integrations significantly reduce optical losses and enhance thermal performance. Our results demonstrate that an optimum mass flow rate of the heat transfer fluid can achieve maximum thermal efficiency in non-evacuated receivers. Aerogel-coated PTC shows promise for high efficiency and can be used in industrial applications, e.g., the generation of high-temperature steam. Comprehensive research investigations on aerogel-filled designs and the impact of fluid inlet velocity on system efficiency are recommended for future research. This research contributes to the development of effective and sustainable solar thermal energy systems.
Arjunan et al. (Thu,) studied this question.