Materials Science for Solar Energy Conversion Systems, Volume 1

Foreword. Introduction to materials science for solar energy conversion systems, C G Granqvist. Optical properties of inhomogeneous two-component materials, G A Niklasson. Transparent insulation materials, W Platzer & V Wittwer. Selectively solar-absorbing surface coatings: optical properties and degradation, G A Niklasson & C G Granqvist. Energy efficient windows: present and forthcoming technology, C G Granqvist. Materials for radiative cooling to low temperatures, C G Granqvist & T S Eriksson.

450 lit. refs approx., 120 illus. approx.

Rapid advances in materials technology are creating many novel forms of coatings for energy efficient applications in solar energy. Insulating heat mirrors, selective absorbers, transparent insulation and fluorescent concentrators are already available commercially. Radiative cooling, electrochromic windows and polymeric light pipes hold promise for future development, while chemical and photochemical processes are being considered for energy storage. This book investigates new material advances as well as applications, costs, reliability and industrial production of existing materials. Each contribution represents a landmark in the field of materials science.

For scientists and engineers interested in solar energy.