Topical Symposium 3
Solar thermal conversion is a promising method for harnessing solar energy and converting it into useful forms of energy. This technology involves the use of materials and thin films that can absorb and convert sunlight into heat energy, which can be used for a variety of applications, including electricity generation, water heating, and space heating. With the increasing demand for renewable and sustainable energy sources, photothermal conversion has gained considerable attention in recent years, and research in this area has led to the development of coatings/thin films as well as innovative technologies with improved efficiency and performance.
The session will encompass an extensive array of topics aimed at advancing solar thermal technologies. These topics will explore the development of various coatings and thin films, including absorber coatings, reflectors, and transparent covers, as well as novel fabrication processes. The emphasis will be given to characterizations, testing techniques, and the evaluation of materials’ performance and durability in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. Furthermore, discussions will revolve around material selection and optimization for applications such as solar water heaters, solar cooking, thermal energy storage, and other industrial processes reliant on solar thermal energy. The session will also delve into the exciting advancements in window materials, integrating photothermal and radiative cooling processes to enhance energy efficiency within buildings. Moreover, attention will be given to innovative solar thermal building materials that facilitate efficient capture, storage, and distribution of solar energy in structures. Additionally, the session will highlight the application of solar thermal technology in water desalination, purification, and wastewater treatment, showcasing sustainable and cost-effective processes that utilize solar energy for evaporation and condensation. These topics, along with others, emphasize the diverse and exciting developments in the field of solar thermal technology.
TS3. Invited Speakers:
- Renkun Chen, University of California San Diego, USA, “Development and Thermal Characterization of High-Temperature Coating Materials for Solar Thermal Energy Conversion”
- Ramon Escobar Galindo, University of Sevilla, Spain, “Application of Surface Engineering Solutions in Concentrating Solar Power Key Components”
- Audrey Soum-Glaude, PROMES-CNRS Laboratory, France, “Smart Coatings for Concentrated Solar Thermal: From Optical Design and Plasma Synthesis to Performance and Durability Assessment”