Solar Concentration Strategies For Evacuated Tubes: A Comparison Between A Compound Parabolic Reflector And A Linear Fresnel Lens

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Caroline C. Piephoff (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Advisor
Carla S. Ramsdell

Abstract: Evacuated tubes are glass tubes coated with Aluminum Nitrate that trap incoming radiation without letting energy escape due to convection or conduction. They are commonly used in solar cooking to heat food or water or in domestic hot water systems. These tubes also have potential to be used as solar water pasteurizers, although it is not currently considered a viable solution. To demonstrate this potential, two identical evacuated tubes were equipped with either a linear Fresnel lens or a compound parabolic reflector to concentrate sunlight and heat the water filling both tubes. The temperature of the water was monitored in each tube and the time was recorded for the water to reach 80 degrees C, a temperature known to pasteurize water. The hope of this research is to bring this technology into the solar water pasteurization field. The results show that the Fresnel lens is much more efficient in sunny conditions, while the reflector is more efficient under cloudy conditions and that both systems are viable for water pasteurization.

Additional Information

Publication
Honors Project
Piephoff, C. (2019). Solar Concentration Strategies For Evacuated Tubes: A Comparison Between A Compound Parabolic Reflector And A Linear Fresnel Lens. Unpublished Honors Thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
Language: English
Date: 2019
Keywords
Water pasteurization, Evacuated tubes, Solar cooking Fresnel lens, Parabolic reflector

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