September 1, 2016 – Keeping energy-concentrating mirrors at solar thermal power plants free from dirt is both labor and time intensive. Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are working to address the challenge with lab-developed superhydrophobic coating technology. “We’ve shown that applying superhydrophobic coating to the surface of solar mirrors reduces dust particle accumulation,” said ORNL’s Georgios Polyzos. “Now, we’re working to improve the coating’s durability, which could make it a cost-effective solution for boosting energy production and operational efficiency at concentrated solar power plants.” The ORNL team is subjecting thinly sprayed mirror samples to simulated harsh desert conditions. Following successful lab testing, they plan to evaluate the coatings on mirrors in the field.
