Solar Energy Projects (Tasks 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4) Presented by R. Boehm UNLV Center for Energy Research

Early PV

Task 2.1 Low Cost, Highly Efficient Flexible Solar Cells M. Misra, Lead PI, UNR Goals in the development of – solar cell materials that are cost effective and scalable – unique compositions that are found by use of models – applications of these composite solar cells in flexible supports – evaluations of long-term performance of these cells

Accomplishments Method of developing dye-sensitized PV wires uses Ti wires containing TiO 2 nanotubes.  Identification of geometry for dye absorption on TiO 2 nanotubes. 

Solar Generated Hydrogen Traditionally with electrolysis

Task 2.2 Hydrogen Generation by Natural Gas Decomposition M. Misra, Lead PI, UNR Goals – Use solar for natural gas decomposition (generally requires > 800°C) – Develop catalyst to reduce temperature required – Increase the kinetics of hydrogen generation – Examine issues of using solar- heated molten salt to drive this process

Tasks Accomplished So Far Developed GC methodologies to measure H 2 and CH 4 Developed apparatus to deliver methane to molten salt Calibrating necessary analytical equipment

Use of Heliostats to Achieve High T

Task 2.3 Solar Research Tower O. Hemmers, Lead PI, UNLV Solar towers use sun-tracking reflectors on the ground to reflect to the top of a tower to achieve a concentrated beam for research or power generation purposes. One is being developed at UNLV. It involves a planar mirror at the top of the tower that “beams- down” the concentrated sunlight for use on the ground. Will make available to interested users to perform research studies when completed.

Progress Concept Laying out sizing and design criteria. Selecting management contractor for initiating work toward construction.

Value of Windows

Task 2.4 Façade Evaluation Facility (FEF) Project R. Boehm, Lead PI, UNLV Goals – To be able to evaluate the performance (thermal, lighting, electrical, depending on the particular details) of façade components. Examples are High performance window and wall designs Daylighting components Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) elements – Facilitate the development of several conceived BIPV products. – Develop a versatile evaluation facility for this

Photos Chinese BIPV product on a building (partially transmitting and generating). UNLV Facility

Summary of Projects Task 2.1: Flexible inexpensive and efficient solar cell development using nanotechnology Task 2.2: Solar-driven hydrogen generation by methane splitting using molten salts Task 2.3: Development of a beam-down solar tower facility to be available to any researchers Task 2.4: Development of a facility for evaluation of façade elements, particularly for BIPV products