Multiscale Design and Numerical Modeling of a Porous Lattice for Concentrated Solar Thermal Applications

Author

Aidan T. McConnehey, Boise State UniversityFollow

Publication Date

5-2024

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

3-13-2024

Type of Culminating Activity

Thesis

Degree Title

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Department Filter

Mechanical and Biomechanical Engineering

Department

Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering

Supervisory Committee Chair

Todd Otanicar, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Krishna Pakala, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Zhangxian Deng, Ph.D.

Abstract

Due to the rising demand in the market for renewable energy, concentrated solar power (CSP) systems are increasing in popularity. One CSP receiver configuration showing increased promise is the volumetric cavity solar receiver, which employs a porous lattice for radiative heat absorption and transport. However, due to the presence of large temperature gradients, mechanical failure as a result of thermal expansion is a crucial metric in the design of these systems.

This thesis involves the design of a porous lattice, constrained by thermal transport requirements as well as mechanical failure criteria. The design is then numerically analyzed to determine thermal transport and failure characteristics under various loading conditions. Furthermore, a multiscale methodology is employed on the porous lattice and solar receiver levels, coupling them through a structural homogenization and re-localization schema. These various analyses are synthesized to demonstrate the validity of the design and characterize its performance.

Comments

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7829-9666

DOI

https://doi.org/10.18122/td.2243.boisestate

Recommended Citation

McConnehey, Aidan T., "Multiscale Design and Numerical Modeling of a Porous Lattice for Concentrated Solar Thermal Applications" (2024). Boise State University Theses and Dissertations. 2243.
https://doi.org/10.18122/td.2243.boisestate