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Multiscale textured solar absorber coatings for next-generation concentrating solar power

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  • Sibin, K.P.
  • Pitchumani, R.

Abstract

A high-temperature stable solar absorber is crucial for next-generation (Gen3) concentrating solar power (CSP) plants, to enable high temperature operation, maximize power generation efficiency, and thereby reduce the levelized cost of energy. This study presents novel, fractal-textured solar absorber coatings whose multiscale feature scales effectively match the visible region of the solar spectrum, leading to superb absorptive properties. Single and bimetallic oxide coatings of copper, cobalt and manganese were prepared on Inconel 625 substrates using electrodeposition. The effect of electrodeposition parameters and annealing temperature are systematically studied to optimize the morphology and properties of the oxide coatings. Multiscale textured bimetallic coatings of copper manganese oxide and copper cobalt oxide demonstrate a superior absorptance of 0.985, a remarkably low emittance <0.45 and an exceptional optical efficiency of ∼96 % under Gen3 CSP operating conditions, surpassing previously reported values in the literature by about 5 %. Durability tests confirmed the coatings’ steadfast endurance of mechanical and environmental stress, making them suitable for long-term application in harsh CSP environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Sibin, K.P. & Pitchumani, R., 2025. "Multiscale textured solar absorber coatings for next-generation concentrating solar power," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 207(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:207:y:2025:i:c:s1364032124006853
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2024.114959
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Atkinson, Carol & Sansom, Chris L. & Almond, Heather J. & Shaw, Chris P., 2015. "Coatings for concentrating solar systems – A review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 45(C), pages 113-122.
    2. Amri, Amun & Jiang, Zhong Tao & Pryor, Trevor & Yin, Chun-Yang & Djordjevic, Sinisa, 2014. "Developments in the synthesis of flat plate solar selective absorber materials via sol–gel methods: A review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 36(C), pages 316-328.
    3. Pelay, Ugo & Luo, Lingai & Fan, Yilin & Stitou, Driss & Rood, Mark, 2017. "Thermal energy storage systems for concentrated solar power plants," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 79(C), pages 82-100.
    4. Bayón, Rocío & San Vicente, Gema & Maffiotte, César & Morales, Ángel, 2008. "Preparation of selective absorbers based on CuMn spinels by dip-coating method," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 33(2), pages 348-353.
    5. Modi, Anish & Bühler, Fabian & Andreasen, Jesper Graa & Haglind, Fredrik, 2017. "A review of solar energy based heat and power generation systems," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 67(C), pages 1047-1064.
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