A photothermal solar tunnel via multiple transparent Fe3O4@Cu2-xS thin films for heating utility application

• Published in: Solar energy 2024-03, Vol.271, p.112444, Article 112444
• Main Authors: Katepalli, Anudeep, Wang, Yuxin, Lin, Jou, Harfmann, Anton, Bonmarin, Mathias, Krupczak, John, Shi, Donglu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 3D solar harvesting; Energy-neutral; Photothermal energy generation; Spectral selective films; Transparent multi-panels
• ISSN: 0038-092X; 1471-1257
• DOI: 10.1016/j.solener.2024.112444

•Transparent multilayer films enable direct solar energy harvesting for heating utilities.•Fe3O4@Cu2-xS-coated glass substrates exhibit high transparency and impressive thermal output.•Photothermal system proves effective in generating substantial thermal energy even in cold weather.•Transparent photothermal technology offers a scalable alternative to traditional photovoltaic solar systems.•Experimental setup presents a promising avenue for energy-neutral building heating with eco-friendly implications. A Photothermal Solar Tunnel Radiator (PSTR) is designed and developed by employing multiple transparent photothermal glass panels (TPGP). The primary objective is to pioneer a transformative approach to achieve energy-neutral building heating utilities, exemplified by a lab-scale “Photothermal Solar Box” (PSB) exclusively heated with TPGP under natural sunlight. The PSTR presents a novel paradigm for sustainable energy, enabling direct solar energy capture through transparent glass substrates with photothermal coatings. The high transparency of Fe3O4@Cu2-xS coated glass substrates enhance efficient solar harvesting and photothermal energy generation within the Photothermal Solar Box. The system demonstrates an impressive thermal energy output, reaching up to 9.1 × 105 joules with 8 photothermal panels in parallel. Even under colder conditions (ambient temperature: 8 °C), with accelerated heat loss, the interior temperatures of the PSB without any thermal insulation achieve a commendable 40 °C, showcasing effective photothermal heating in cold weather. These findings indicate the system's resilience and efficiency in harnessing solar energy under diverse conditions, including partial cloudy weather. The initiative contributes to broader sustainability goals by providing a scalable and practical alternative to traditional solar heating methods, aligning with the global mission for a cleaner, greener future.