Thermodynamics of Solar Energy Conversion

De Vos, Alexis

1. Edition February 2008
XIII, 192 Pages, Hardcover
80 Pictures
Practical Approach Book

ISBN: 978-3-527-40841-2

Wiley-VCH, Berlin

Short Description

An excellent and unique general introduction to the principles of future solar energy systems, assuming an undergraduate level of physics knowledge. General principles are illustrated using idealized models, and technological examples are used to compare reality with theory.

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An excellent and unique generalized introduction to the fundamental principles of future solar energy systems, based on good and consistent physics. In describing the various conversions, the author makes use of endoreversible thermodynamics - a subset of irreversible thermodynamics. In this way, readers are supplied with the information to enable them to calculate the explicit values for a broad class of processes. Throughout, general principles are illustrated using idealized models, and end-of-chapter technological examples are merely presented so as to compare reality with theory. As such, no more than an undergraduate level of physics knowledge is assumed, together with a familiarity with SI units, and no differential equations are used.

1) Radiation
2) The Solar System
3) Thermodynamical Engines
4) Wind Energy Creation
5) Photothermal Conversion
6) Photovoltaic Conversion
7) Hybrid Conversion
8) Multicolour Conversion
9) Chemical Reactions
10) Photosynthesis
Appendices

Alexis de Vos received his Ph.D. degree in applied sciences from the University of Ghent, Belgium, in 1979. He currently holds posts as part-time systems engineer at the Flemish Interuniversity Microelectronics Research Centre, and as a part-time professor at the Department of Electronics and Information Systems of the University of Ghent. His research focuses on material science (polymers, semiconductors, metals, liquid crystals), microelectronics (thin films and chips), and energy sciences (thermodynamics, solar energy, endoreversible engines, reversible computing). He is the author and co-editor of several books and has authored numerous papers and articles. Since 1993, he has been acting as the coordinator of the pan-European Carnot Network on Thermodynamics and Thermoeconomics of Energy Conversion and Transport.

A. De Vos, Universiteit Gent