Impact of dust composition on parabolic trough concentrator performance across diverse regions

Abstract

Parabolic trough concentrators are widely utilized in solar energy for thermal conversion, owing to their simple design and high efficiency. However, their outdoor efficiency is often hindered by dust accumulation. This study employs the Monte Carlo Ray Tracing method, a computational method simulating the interaction between dust and concentrators surfaces, to investigate the effects of various dust types on the optical performance of concentrators. Dust accumulation is analyzed for four representative regions: Garz, Arizona, Qinghai, and Lahore. A comprehensive analysis of dust composition in these areas reveals key components such as SiO₂, Al₂O₃, Fe₂O₃, C, and H₂O, which play crucial roles in optical efficiency. Increasing low-absorption components such as SiO₂ and H₂O in dust steeply reduces relative reflectance. Conversely, higher proportions of high-absorption components like Fe₂O₃ and C in dust lead to a steep increase in relative reflectance. This study quantifies the impact of dust accumulation on the optical performance of concentrators using the Monte Carlo Ray Tracing method, revealing a 20.4 % and 30.5 % efficiency reduction at a deposition density of 10 and 15 g/m², and highlighting the critical role of dust composition in reflectivity and absorption. Based on these findings, a fitting formula is proposed to predict performance degradation and recommend an economic cleaning cycle of 20.8 to 61.1 days, providing a basis for the optimization of concentrated solar power systems in dust-prone regions. This research enhances the deployment and maintenance of concentrated solar power systems by elucidating the impact of dust accumulation on parabolic trough concentrator performance.