Can optical fibers be used in solar thermal concentrating systems?

CONCLUSIONS The major finding of the current analysis is that the use of optical fibers in solar thermal concentrating systems for power generation is feasible, but only under specific circumstances. The main point to watch is minimizing the amount of fibers used in the system, since this is a significant cost driver.

What are the advantages of a fiber-optic solar-cell system?

The advantage of a fiber-optic solar-cell system over a planar one is that light scatters inside the optical fiber as it moves along its length, providing more opportunities to interact with the solar cell itself on its inner surface, generating more power.

Why are optical fibers so expensive?

The reasons can be traced to the high cost of fibers; low numerical aperture (low solar energy concentration in the fiber) of the fibers that were considered; and the absence of receiver technology that can fully utilize the geometrical flexibility of optical fibers to improve the system efficiency.

What are the advantages of fiber optics?

One of the advantages of fiber optics is its ability to transmit energy and data more rapidly than other basic cabling materials. Using fiber optics to channel the potential energy from solar plants to power stations offers fast, reliable distribution to multiple destinations.

Are fiber-optic solar cells better than planar solar modules?

South Korean scientists have built a vertical three-dimensional fiber-optic solar-cell system with greater maximum efficiency than planar solar modules, as well as a lower surface requirement. The optical fiber-solar cell hybrid system (left) and the test of the fiber-optic solar cell (right) Image: Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS)

Can optical fiber be used as a telecommunication line?

Electric power is required in telecommunication systems. Therefore, the use of optical fiber, as both a telecommunication line and a power line, is attractive in these systems.