Abstract :
The layout of the heliostat field of solar tower systems is optimized for maximum annual solar-to-chemical energy conversion efficiency
in high-temperature thermochemical processes for solar fuels production. The optimization algorithm is based on the performance
function that includes heliostat characteristics, secondary optics, and chemical receiver–reactor characteristics at representative time
steps for evaluating the annual fuel production rates. Two exemplary applications for solar fuels production are selected: the thermal
reduction of zinc oxide as part of a two-step water-splitting cycle for hydrogen production, and the coal gasification for syngas
production.
2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved
