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Evacuated collector tube-based solar energy conversion system: Device structure, practical application, and sustainability assessment

Author

Listed:
  • Shen, Yuyao
  • Yang, Yawei
  • Liu, Bowen
  • Liu, Yihong
  • Zhao, Qi
  • Ma, Yong
  • Zhou, Mo
  • Wang, Tianyi
  • Guo, Lin
  • Que, Wenxiu

Abstract

Evacuated collector tube (ECT) represents a solution with significant room for development for efficient solar thermal energy conversion, offering high insulation performance, structural adaptability, and multifunctional integration. This review highlights recent advances in the structural design of ECT, including improvements in absorber coatings, vacuum insulation, and external concentrator configurations. ECT systems have shown strong potential across diverse applications such as thermal energy storage, solar-driven catalytic fuel production, and seawater desalination. By efficiently capturing and retaining solar energy, these systems enable stable operation under varying environmental conditions and support continuous energy and water output. In addition, we also discussed the existing limitations of current ECT systems, particularly regarding scalability, long-term durability, and operational efficiency under fluctuating environmental conditions. These challenges necessitate further investigation into advanced materials, system integration, and adaptive control mechanisms. This work provides a comprehensive foundation for future research and deployment of ECT-based technologies in green energy and water management.

Suggested Citation

  • Shen, Yuyao & Yang, Yawei & Liu, Bowen & Liu, Yihong & Zhao, Qi & Ma, Yong & Zhou, Mo & Wang, Tianyi & Guo, Lin & Que, Wenxiu, 2025. "Evacuated collector tube-based solar energy conversion system: Device structure, practical application, and sustainability assessment," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 402(PA).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:402:y:2025:i:pa:s0306261925016514
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.126921
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