Experiments and Analysis on the Molten-Salt Direct-Contact Absorption Receiver Concept

This paper presents results of recent experiments on the Direct Absorption Receiver (DAR) concept using molten salt as the working fluid. The DAR concept may result in a solar central receiver that costs 50% less than the current tube receiver and has significantly lower operational and maintenance costs. These experiments were aimed at determining whether the DAR concept is technically feasibleand were carried out at the Advanced Components Test Facility, Atlanta, Ga. Results are based on several days of operating with solar flux ranging up to 50 W/cm2 and also on a numerical model that is capable of predicting the thermal performance of the DAR salt film. Issues relating to thermal efficiency, absorber-to-salt heat transfer, and salt film stability are addressed.