Development and performance testing of reflector materials for concentrated solar power: A review

Abstract

Concentrated solar power is a competitive renewable energy technology that offers many advantages. Development in the parabolic shape concentrator demands the curved mirrors to harness the maximum solar energy received through the aperture opening. The performance of the concentrated solar collector mainly depends on the characteristic of the reflecting material. High reflective and durable mirrors are required for the viability of a concentrated solar collector. This paper is aimed to present the up to date progress in the solar reflector material and their performance testing. Thick glass mirrors with a protective coating against the weathering have made the place in the solar thermal power plant. However, the use of the glass mirror is limited to only the flat surface reflector. On the other hand, polymer mirrors are flexible but found less durable in outdoor weather conditions and susceptible to elevated temperatures. The reflectivity of stainless steel is lower; it limits the stainless steel used as a solar reflector. The glass mirror and aluminium are the main candidate material for the solar reflector. Reflectivity, durability and cost are the major parameters considered during the performance testing of the reflector material. In this article, studies on reflective surface preparation techniques and their durability analysis are also discussed.