Research review on performance evaluation of a parabolic trough solar collector for hot water generation

Abstract

This experimental study aimed to examine the impact of many parameters, including concentration ratio, optical efficiency, and thermal efficiency, on the performance of the trough solar collector. In the present day, nations throughout the globe exhibit a collective preoccupation with the issue of environmental pollution and its consequential impacts. However, it remains imperative for these nations to secure adequate energy resources in order to facilitate the progress and advancement of their respective countries. The utilization of conventional techniques, particularly those involving coal, fossil fuels, and organic matter, to generate the necessary energy yields a significant level of air pollution, which serves as the primary catalyst for global warming. The utilization of non-conventional methods for energy production is deemed more favorable in terms of environmental impact. However, the lack of economic viability serves as the primary deterrent for impoverished and emerging nations in adopting such non-conventional techniques. The geographical conditions have a significant role in determining the viability of nonconventional sources such as solar energy and wind energy. This study involved an analysis of the performance of a solar trough collector, with subsequent calculations of its efficiencies.