Photocell heat engine solar power systemsA combined photocell heat engine concept is proposed for high efficiency solar energy conversion in space. In this concept the short wavelength portion of the solar spectrum is split by a dichroic filter and sent to a bank of photocells. The long wave-length remainder of the spectrum is used by the heat engine. This technique allows the photocells to operate with the minimum amount of waste heat, increasing their efficiency and reducing the amount of cooling required. The heat engine operates by direct absorption in a working fluid containing broadband absorber molecules or particulates. A window in the heat engine admits the long wave-lengths from the solar spectrum. The window may also reflect a portion of the internal gaseous reradiation spectrum (e.g., a heat mirror) to help reduce radiation losses. Flow-induced thermal gradients may also reduce reradiation losses in the case of optically thick working fluids. The efficiencies computed for the photocell heat engine solar energy converter can be as high as 42 percent.
Document ID
19800064009
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Taussig, R. T. (Mathematical Sciences Northwest, Inc. Bellevue, WA, United States)
Vaidyanathan, T. S. (Mathematical Sciences Northwest, Inc. Bellevue, WA, United States)
Hoverson, S. (Mathematical Sciences Northwest, Inc. Bellevue, WA, United States)
Bruzzone, C. (Mathematical Sciences Northwest, Inc. Bellevue, Wash., United States)
Christiansen, W. (Washington, University Seattle, Wash., United States)