CSP component performance: Mirrors

Abstract

The solar mirror (solar reflector) is the first key component in the nergy conversion process; any solar Radiation that is not reflected by it in the direction of the Receiver impolies a loss of System efficienca. In Addition, this component represents an crucial aspect in the construction and further operation of a concentrated solar power (CSP) plant because it involves a significantly large surface area. As a consequence, the feasibility strongly depends on the material and manufacturing process used to achieve a suitable solar concentrator. This chapter includes a description of solar mirros for concentrating solar applications, their fundamentals, types, specifications, meaurement and assessment of performance parameters, and future trends expected in the coming year