Sensors & Electronics
Macro Property Measurement
Solar Energy Mirror Characterization (136)
Problem: Solar energy system designers need reliable mirror performance data to support system design
Project Activity Scope (from Technical Overview Chart): Devices through Integrated Systems
PNNL Solution:
- Developed reliable laboratory methods for mirror reflectance, shape, and scatter measurements
- Evaluated alternative glass substrate material properties
- Recommended low-iron float glass for solar thermal system use
- Evaluated production glass/mirrors
Capabilities Employed to Meet Client Needs: Precision spectral measurements (reflectance and transmittance) using spectrophotometers; optical system design for glass shape analysis; Fourier optics for optical scattering analysis; data analysis for application requirements; lab instrumentation development including computer controls for method development and sample analysis; reporting of results in DOE reports and open literature; support of system design discussions based on practical materials performance data.
Selected Links to Related Information:
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Contact: Tim Stewart
