Optical Nanofilm Spectral Filter for Next Generation Hybrid Solar CPV-T System
▶Summary
Efficient exploitation of solar energy is regarded as an effective solution to the problems induced by fossil fuel combustion. In theproposed work, a novel nanofilm spectral splitter (NSF) will be deployed in a hybrid CPV/T collector acting highly efficient solarenergy conversion system contributing European Green Deal and UN Sustainable Development Goals. This collector will benefit froma step-change improvement in electrical efficiency via the optical filtering of spectral wavelengths that are inefficiently utilised by thePV cells in the form of heat, enabling the delivery of high-temperature heat and enhancing the life of the PV cells. This research aimsto break entirely from conventional design principles and develop ‘PV mirror’ assisted solar thermal power systems, improving theirannual efficiency by 15-20%. A novel concept of integrating NSF and PV cells for developing efficient ‘PV mirrors’ will be breakthroughresearch in the field of hybrid solar thermal power generation. The OPTIFILT project is highly interdisciplinary and covers diversedisciplines such as material science (nanofilm), physics (PV), energy engineering (solar collector development), mechanical andchemical engineering (thermal power generation). The host supervisor is a world-leading researcher who will provide expert trainingand support for design and development of the innovative hybrid PV/T concept. The researcher, a leading Indian researcher will bringhis knowledge on the novel application of nanotechnology in solar spectral beam splitting to the host. Also, design of concentratingcollectors will support OPTIFILT through planned short visits and secondment. The high-quality two-way transfer of knowledgerequired for this project will ensure that research goals are achieved, whilst also presenting a great opportunity to accelerate theacademic career of the researcher. The completion of OPTIFILT will lead to significant economic and societal impacts within the EUand global