Innovative components for low-temperature solar thermal technology and combined solar power and heat generation (PV-T)
In addition to improving concentrating and non-concentrating collectors according to the state of the art, we also develop new product concepts for solar thermal technology. Alternative manufacturing processes and materials help us to create innovative absorber designs. Our bespoke bionic FracTherm® procedure creates channel structures on almost any surface with only minor drops in pressure and a uniform flow distribution. Multifunctional collectors open up new opportunities in the solar thermal market. Across departments, we work together to develop collectors with additional features such as partial transparency, solar control, glare protection, structural functions or architectural design. Photovoltaic-thermal collectors are able to produce both electricity and heat in one component at the same time. Here, too, we apply our expertise in solar cells, module and collector technology as well as thermal and electric measurement procedures. Solar air collectors provide an interesting alternative to water-based systems, and we compare and optimize them through measurement and simulation. Moreover, we use optical simulation to improve and develop both static and tracking concentrating collectors. In addition to collectors, storage systems are an important key component of thermal solar systems. We optimize conventional, water-based storage systems and develop new heat storage concepts.
We also carry out significant activities in the area of “efficient heat transfer”, one interesting example being the use of heat pipes in solar technology.