Design of an Innovative Mirror Cleaning Device for Solar Power Applications

Overview

Solar collectors are gaining popularity and relevance in the sustainably energy sources exploitation. The efficient harvesting of sun power may guarantee a safe transition from polluting fossil-fuel systems to renewable energy. However, these collectors may be affected by soiling, i.e. deposition of airborne pollutants and dust on their surfaces. Soiling hinders the optical efficiency of the reflectors thus limiting the achievable power generation of the plant. The design of an innovative cleaning device that could limit the detrimental effects of soiling could help improving current and future solar technologies.

Research engagement

The project will include both analytic and hands-on activities. From an initial literature review required to identify previously realized prototype to the design of an innovative one and its testing.

Research activities

A rigorous literature review of currently available prototypes for solar collectors cleaning has to be performed. Subsequently, the design of an innovative cleaning systems has to be realized and eventually, pending time and resource availability, the cleaning device will be constructed and tested.

Outcomes

The main outcome of this work is a functioning cleaning device for solar collectors. A written report regarding the activities performed will also be realized.

Skills and experience

The ideal candidate should be curious and well prepared in fluid dynamics, energy conversion, manufacturing.

Start date

10 November, 2024

End date

20 February, 2025

Location

Gardens Point campus

Additional information

The student will be provided with assistance in every step of the project, furthermore, access to labs to design and build the device will be provided. A device to measure the cleanliness of the solar collectors is also available.

Keywords

• solar
• cleaning
• prototype
• soiling
• energy

Contact

Dr Giovanni Picotti, g.picotti@qut.edu.au