Research Methods for Solar Thermal Systems: Efficiency Analysis and Optimization Techniques

Solar thermal systems play a crucial role in renewable energy by converting solar radiation into thermal energy for residential, industrial, and power generation applications. Their efficiency is influenced by absorber material properties, heat transfer processes, and system design. This study explores analytical and computational methods for assessing and optimizing solar thermal system performance. Energy and exergy analyses identify inefficiencies, while Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations enhance heat transfer modelling. Optimization techniques, including material selection, machine learning-based predictive models, and exergoeconomic analysis, contribute to improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By integrating experimental validation with numerical modelling, this research highlights advancements in absorber coatings, nanofluids. and thermodynamic assessment. The findings provide insights into enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of solar thermal systems, supporting their broader implementation in renewable energy applications.