Abstract :
This study is a prelude to the definition of a new synthetic parameter inserted in a 2D abacus. This parameter: the Amlouk–Boubaker
optothermal expansivity , is defined, for a given PV–T material, as a thermal diffusivity-to-optical effective absorptivity ratio. This
parameter’s unit evokes a heat flow velocity inside the material. Consequently, the parameter wAB could be combined with the already
known bandgap energy Eg, in order to establish a 2D abacus.
A sketched scheme of the 2D abacus is proposed as a guide for investigation and evaluation of PV–T candidate materials like metal
oxides, amorphous silicon, zinc-doped binary compounds, and hydrogenated amorphous carbon. Using this abacus, designers will be
able to compare solar energy-related materials on the basis of conjoint optical and thermal efficiency.
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