Bent fluorescent solar concentrators (BFSCs): Spectroscopy, stability and outdoor performance

The spectroscopic properties of a coumarin derivative dye (macrolex fluorescent red G) impregnated in a poly(methylmethacrylate)/ silica hybrid matrix were studied. The stability of the hybrid against both light irradiation and raised temperature showed excellent weathering durability for use in fluorescent solar concentrator (FSC) applications. A new geometry for FSCs was introduced, which we call a "bent plate configuration". Each BFSC plate was manufactured as two rectangles forming two sides of a triangle to optimize receiving both direct and reflected solar energy. The effect of the concentrator apex angle on solar energy conversion was studied. The optimum apex angle was found to correlate well to the location latitude. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.