Page 21 - JCERDC Status Report

Deployable tools and technologies under PACE – R

• SERIIUS is setting up the first super-critical • A novel molten salt-based heat transfer SERIIUS
CO laboratory scale test loop for CSP at fluids with enhanced thermal properties
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IISc. Bangalore in collaboration with Sandia have been developed. Two patents have
National Labs. The main purpose of the been filed.
small-scale facility, with 50 kW of heat input, • Reliability studies for photovoltaics in India:
is to demonstrate the technical viability (i.e., One of the important activities of SERIIUS
the cycle thermodynamic state points) and is the study of reliability of PV modules
controllability of the S-CO Brayton cycle in India and USA. Preliminary results of
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and to provide a platform to test small-scale studies being conducted through SERIIUS,
components such as solar receivers and as well as other projects show that the life
heat exchangers. Intermediate-or prototype- of modules in hot climates like India and
scale demo of S-CO cycle through the Arizona are less than in temperate climates.
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PACE-D program is needed to establish The results of this research will potentially
commercial viability. be included in new test protocols for PV

• Two small-scale solar receivers for S-CO modules to certify their usability in a hot
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have been designed and fabricated for climate, like India’s.
testing in the IISc. loop. Development of • Soiling mitigation for PV modules: SERIIUS
scaled up versions of these concepts, after studies have shown that as much as 10%
testing and proof of concept, can be taken power loss can occur per month if the
up under PACE-D program. modules are not cleaned regularly. A study of
• SERIIUS has developed a 4m2 heliostat cleaning protocols is being started to assess
prototype that is significantly smaller than best cycles for different regions. Work on
the standard 36 m2 heliostat, with a lower PV module surfaces to minimize soiling and
projected cost per unit area. This product enhance cleanabiity is also underway.
has potential for deployment, post field • Use of Flexible Glass for Substrates and
testing. Encapsulation: The research has opened
• A new absorber coating material with high up the possibility for roll-to-roll processing
thermal stability and high corrosion resistant of solar cell using corning willow glass
property has been demonstrated on SS 304 giving very high throughputs and lower
tubes for use in parabolic trough system for costs. Also, since capital costs for roll-to-
ORC cycle. This product has potential for roll processing systems would be less than
deployment after field and weather testing. standard vacuum and high-temperature
• Prototype of a new scroll expander with processing systems, they are better suited
optimized geometry being fabricated for for manufacturing in India. Finally, flexible
testing in an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) glass is also an attractive encapsulant /
sealant for various thin film cells, which is
rig in Florida. This product can be deployed
for off-grid small-scale ORC applications. also being tried out in SERIIUS.

For latest updates on SERIIUS, please visit us at:
www.seriius.org

Status Report 2015 21