FRIENDS2 · Framework of Innovation for Engineering of New Durable Solar Surfaces

Framework of Innovation for Engineering of New Durable Solar Surfaces

Increasing the share of renewables in the European energy mix has a key function for the security of energy supply and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions caused by fossil fuels. The general problem addressed in the project “Framework of Innovation for Engineering of New Durable Solar Surfaces”, (acronym FRIENDS2), consisted in the improvement of European innovation ability in the field of concentrated solar power (CSP), which is a technology of renewable energy supply. CSP has two significant technological advantages compared to other renewable energy technologies: intrinsic storage capacity and compatibility with backup fossil fuels. Electricity generated by CSP is dispatchable and enables to ensure base load. Innovative R&D approaches and training of motivated and highly-skilled researchers were shown to pave the way for a higher CSP plant efficiency by implementing new materials, higher operation temperatures and reducing the levelised costs of electricity. The project aimed at achieving a European network for the transfer of knowledge to establish a shared culture of research and innovation which allows turning creative ideas in the field of surface engineering into innovative solutions for concentrating solar power (CSP) applications. It strengthened the inter-sectoral capabilities in research and development of coating designs in order to improve the performance of CSP key components (reflectors, receivers and containers for heat storage) for high-temperature applications. According to the funding principles of the EU-RISE scheme, the project objectives included elements of research & innovation, knowledge transfer and staff development. The general objective of FRIENDS2 was to advance the development of new coating designs that can improve the performance of key materials used in a central receiver CSP plant through an efficient inter-sectoral transfer of knowledge in new coatings design, manufacturing and advanced characterization, and coating evaluation between European academic institutions and European industrial partners. The main requirements for future development and application of CSP technology are the improvement of its overall efficiency and the reduction of costs per kWh. The key components responsible for the solar to thermal energy conversion efficiency of CSP tower plants are 1) the solar absorber, 2) the concentrating mirrors, and 3) the heat-transfer fluid transport and storage system. Their performance improvement and durable long-term temperature and chemical stability were the scientific objectives of the FRIENDS2 project. By developing, testing and validating three new types of CSP coatings with performances beyond the state of art, the project has demonstrated that intersectoral and international collaboration can result in relevant contributions to science, career development and knowledge transfer.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union