The Impact of Receiver Geometry with Nanofluid on the Performance of a Fresnel Collector

Solar energy devices have acquired growing attention to developing friendly-environment techniques. Linear Fresnel collector is preferred due to its low thermal losses. The present work numerically studied the impact of a linear Fresnel receiver geometry and utilizing TiO2 on the performance of the collector. Circular and isosceles receivers were investigated. Three TiO2 volume fractions were utilized: 0%, 2%, and 4%. The tested Reynolds number range was between 100 and 900. COMSOL Multiphysics 6.1, i.e., based on the Finite Element method, was used to solve the present problem. The circular receiver had significantly better comprehensive evaluation criteria than the triangular. The Nusselt number improved by 2.64% at Reynolds number 900 as 4% TiO2 was added to the pure water. The triangular receiver friction factor was up to 16.7% lower than the circular for Reynolds number<300 and 4% TiO2.