Abstract
A generalized model for the maximum work rate extractable from the Sun is developed considering a reversible and an endoreversible system to define a more practical upper-bound efficiency for the conversion of solar radiation into work and power. This model is based on a photo-thermal work extractor in communication with a high-temperature radiation reservoir and a low-temperature heat sink. Following the model, a parametric analysis of the concentration acceptance product (ξ) and thermal conductance is performed to identify the interdependence of variables for the solar exergy. The results are compared with existing models to provide a practical baseline of work and power extractable from concentrated solar power plants (CSP) technologies. Therefore, it is possible to quantify the irreversibilities of an idealized thermodynamic system operating between the Sun and the absorber (via radiative transfer) and the environment (via convective transfer).
Funding source: CONACyT Graduate Scholarship for EGM https://doi.org/10.13039/501100003141
Award Identifier / Grant number: 863595
Acknowledgement
EGM would like to acknowledge the participants at Thermodynamics 2.0 | 2020 and 2022 conferences for the fruitful discussions about finite-time thermodynamics.
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Author contributions: All the authors have accepted responsibility for the entire content of this submitted manuscript and approved submission.
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Research funding: CONACyT Graduate Scholarship for EGM (863595). https://doi.org/10.13039/501100003141.
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Conflict of interest statement: The authors have no conflicts to disclose.
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