Bi-modal solar thermal propulsion and power system: Modelling and optimisation for the next-generation of small satellites

Exploring and utilising space to benefit humankind is undeniably a costly venture where the higher the mass of the satellite, the higher the cost to launch. However, the rewards of space-related achievements are indisputable. These achievements range from increasing our understanding of the universe using satellites, such as the Hubble Space...

Development of a high-temperature Solar Thermal Propulsion engine

Miniaturization in spacecraft is an ongoing process in which the launched satellites become smaller and smaller. This trend introduces issues, such as the choice for a reliable and efficient propulsion subsystem. The implementation of engines would enable the spacecraft to perform maneuvers such as orbit changes, drag compensation and attitude...

A review on techno-economic assessment of solar water heating systems in the middle east

Currently, the economy of Middle Eastern countries relies heavily on fossil fuel sources. The direct and indirect adverse consequences of fossil fuel utilization for power generation enforce the region’s countries to raise the share of renewable energy. In this context, various incentive policies have been developed to encourage the...

Solutions for improving the energy efficiency in wastewater treatment plants based on solid oxide fuel cell technology

Polygeneration configurations for small power generation systems offer significant potential for energy saving and reducing carbon emissions in wastewater treatment facilities. In this work, a biogas-fed solid oxide fuel cell system operating in a wastewater treatment plant (located in Turin, Italy) is analyzed in terms of its potential...

Feasibility Study of Self-Sufficient Solar Cooling Façade Applications in Different Warm Regions

Small-scale systems and integrated concepts are currently being explored to promote the widespread application of solar cooling technologies in buildings. This article seeks to expand application possibilities by exploring the feasibility of solar cooling integrated façades, as decentralized self-sufficient cooling modules on different warm...

Consumer renewable energy technology adoption decision-making: Comparing models on perceived attributes and attitudinal constructs in the case of solar water heaters in Lebanon

Climate change and environmental problems are of major concern to governments, organisations, and consumers. This stresses the need for a transition towards clean renewable energy systems. To enable the diffusion of cleaner energy technology it is not enough to just have supportive policies in place. The challenge is to ensure that consumers...

Solar façades: Main barriers for widespread façade integration of solar technologies

Solar energy has been actively promoted as a clean energy source since 1973’s oil crisis, evidenced by the emergence of initiatives such as the Solar Heating & Cooling Programme of the International Energy Agency or the US Department of Energy. Nonetheless, solar technologies have not been widely used in the built environment, limiting their...

Solar Concentrator Demonstrator for PocketQubes

Deployable systems for small satellites appear as an innovative solution to enhance the performance capabilities and enlarge the mission range of this category of spacecraft. Embedded within the research line in Solar Thermal Propulsion and the new mission Delfi-PQ, this project tackles the design, analysis, production and testing of a solar...

Design of a Solar Thermal Power-Propulsion System for a Small Satellite

Exploring integration options in the energy sector, Including a case study of the integration of solar thermal energy into a combined cycle power plant

Energy and the environment are major issues of discussion in the last years. Security of energy supply in the future is questionable, as energy reserves are depleting. Moreover, damage has been caused to the environment by human actions. Therefore, sustainability has become a major challenge. Scientists and researchers around the world are...

Solar Thermal Collector in Facades

A venetian blind, which can be located in front or in between the façade panes, is proposed to do the task of a shading system and solar thermal collector, transferring the collected heat through a thermal network, so that it can be stored and used later for solar heating and cooling purposes. It is proposed that such venetian blind is enabled...

Thermal collector façade

Existing building stock, represented by major share of outdated structures account for a large portion of today’s primary energy consumption for their maintenance and running. These structures failing to comply with today’s norms and standards have to be refurbished to meet modern demand for their better and efficient usage. This research...