A groundbreaking study has emerged from a collaborative effort among experts at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and several other leading laboratories, focusing on a novel image processing technique designed to detect corrosion in silvered glass reflectors used in solar energy applications. This research, published in the journal ‘Results in Engineering,’ aims to enhance the reliability and longevity of solar reflectors, crucial components in concentrating solar power systems.
The study is particularly timely as the energy sector increasingly turns to renewable sources. With solar energy playing a pivotal role in the transition to sustainable power, ensuring the durability of solar reflectors is paramount. Florian Wiesinger, the lead author affiliated with the DLR’s Institute of Solar Research, emphasizes the importance of this development: “Our new characterization technique not only complements existing reflectometer measurements but also provides a more nuanced understanding of corrosion impacts on solar reflectors.”
Through rigorous Round Robin experiments, the research team validated their methodology by analyzing corroded solar reflectors under various conditions. They discovered significant variations in corrosion metrics, with parameters like corrosion spot density showing an average coefficient of variation of 62.6%. In contrast, measurements of total corroded area and maximum edge corrosion penetration exhibited better consistency, with coefficients of variation of 14.3% and 13.4%, respectively. This reliability is critical for manufacturers and operators in the solar energy sector who must ensure their systems can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
The study also revealed stark differences in corrosion resistance between two types of coatings. The commercial coating RL1 demonstrated superior performance in corrosive environments, with total corroded areas of 59 mm² and 426 mm² recorded after 68 months of exposure at sites classified as corrosivity class C2 and C3, respectively. In comparison, the novel low-lead coated reflector RL3 showed significantly higher corrosion, with values of 280 mm² and 1308 mm². “These findings highlight the necessity for continuous innovation in coating technologies to enhance the lifespan of solar reflectors,” Wiesinger noted.
Moreover, the research underscores the critical role of edge sealing in protecting reflectors from corrosion. The study found that unprotected edges could increase corrosion penetration by a factor of 1.3 to 4.0, a revelation that could prompt manufacturers to revisit their design and production processes to ensure better longevity and performance of their products.
With the negligible decrease in reflectance observed (ranging from 0.000 to 0.005), the implications of this research extend beyond mere academic interest. By improving the methodologies for assessing corrosion, the energy sector can enhance the reliability of solar installations, ultimately leading to more efficient energy generation and reduced operational costs.
As the energy landscape continues to evolve, innovations like those presented by Wiesinger and his team will be vital in shaping the future of solar technology. The insights gained from this research not only promise to bolster the durability of solar reflectors but also pave the way for more resilient solar energy systems that can withstand the test of time and environmental challenges. For more information about the work of Wiesinger and his colleagues, visit the German Aerospace Center.
