A detailed review of various design and operating parameters affecting the thermal performance augmentation of flat-plate solar collectors

Abstract

The current study provides an overview of FPSCs, detailing their advantages and disadvantages, along with recent research on diverse methods for performance enhancement. These methods encompass constructive and operational parameters, such as incorporating turbulence generators, fins, phase change materials (PCMs), and nano-fluids as working mediums, improving solar radiation harvest through reflectors, and utilising mini- and micro-channels for fluid flow. It was observed that, depending on the design and application, the inclusion of turbulators and fins on FPSCs may result in efficiency improvements. Furthermore, integrating PCMs into FPSCs enhances thermal efficiency, with paraffin wax being a commonly used PCM for SCs. The adoption of nano-fluids instead of water proves to be beneficial in improving the FPSCs thermal efficiency. Employing reflectors for the collectors improves the heating process and overall performance. Additionally, utilising mini and microchannels in such SCs enhances reliability and heat transfer, provides higher compressive strength, and reduces costs and contact resistance compared to conventional FPSCs.