A composite carrier reflector based parabolic trough system was successfully developed.

The composite material reflective panel approach developed specifically for roof mounted parabolic trough applications, has use in all solar technologies employing mirrors. Depending on the application (small aperture parabolic troughs, heliostats, linear Fresnel reflectors, large parabolic troughs for CSP or parabolic dish elements) the structural support system and tracking mechanism will differ. The low mass, strength and stiffness of the composite material carrier however, which is common throughout, results in a simplified and cheaper support structure and tracking mechanism.

Acknowledgements

[1] The development of the collector was supported by the Renewable Energy Development Initiative of the Commonwealth Government of Australia.

[2] The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation for the photogrammetry and ray tracing analysis.