Choose from one of the three topics below and write a short research paper (2-3 pages long). The short report should include the source of information identified in the text as well as a reference listing at the end of report. Divide the report to sections (problem statement, introduction, discussion, etc). Include pagination and number equations (if any). Captions should be included for figures and tables (if any). This assignment will be due on July 7.
Topic 1: Concentrating Solar Power
Concentrating solar power is one of the most promising technologies in the area of renewable energy and it presents several heat transfer challenges.
1. Give a brief introduction to CSP.
2. Describe how a solar trough works.
3. Describe how a solar tower works.
4. What is the current state of thermal energy storage for CSP.
Topic 2: Phase-change materials for thermal energy storage
Related to the previous topic, one of the potential solutions to the energy storage problem for CSP is the use of phase-change materials (PCM).
1. What are phase-change materials and how do they work?
2. What are the advantages of PCMs over other thermal energy storage systems?
3. What are the disadvantages of PCMs?
Topic 3: Earth’s energy budget
One of the most hotly debated issues today is climate change. Central to the discussion on climate change is the earth’s energy budget. Give a short description of it, what are the processes involved and how much do they contribute to the overall budget.