FAMU FSU COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING A CONCEN

This thesis presents the development of a concentrated solar thermal energy system aimed at improving efficiency in harnessing solar energy. The primary objective is to design and test a solar collector capable of achieving higher temperatures suitable for electricity generation. The methodology employed includes theoretical modeling and experimental analysis of a parabolic trough collector system. Various parameters were optimized through systematic experimentation, including collector geometry, material selection, and heat transfer mechanisms. The results indicate that the developed system can effectively reach intermediate temperatures, significantly enhancing energy capture compared to conventional systems. Additionally, the incorporation of tracking mechanisms showed improved overall efficiency, confirming the potential for practical applications in solar energy production. This work ultimately contributes valuable insights into the design and optimization of concentrated solar thermal systems, paving the way for more sustainable energy solutions.