Could Scaling Fresnel Lens Technology Result In A Greater Capacity For Solar Heating And Cooking Applications?
School Name
The Center for Advanced Technical Studies
Grade Level
11th Grade
Presentation Topic
Environmental Science
Presentation Type
Non-Mentored
Abstract
Fresnel lens devices are a type of solar concentrator technology that can be utilized to heat and cook very effectively due to the extremely high temperatures that are reached. The goal of this research study is to determine if scaling a Fresnel lens to a much larger size can result in a greater output efficiency that would allow for underdeveloped areas of the world to use the devices for heating and cooking applications. Specifically, larger Fresnel lens devices could potentially be used for heating & boiling large quantities of water in order to provide drinking water for areas of the globe where clean, safe drinking water does not currently exist. As long as extended periods of sunny weather are consistently available, Fresnel lens concentrators could reliably supply safe drinking water and cooking solutions.
Recommended Citation
Burkhalter, Gage, "Could Scaling Fresnel Lens Technology Result In A Greater Capacity For Solar Heating And Cooking Applications?" (2015). South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. 163.
https://scholarexchange.furman.edu/scjas/2015/all/163
Start Date
4-11-2015 9:15 AM
End Date
4-11-2015 9:30 AM
Could Scaling Fresnel Lens Technology Result In A Greater Capacity For Solar Heating And Cooking Applications?
Fresnel lens devices are a type of solar concentrator technology that can be utilized to heat and cook very effectively due to the extremely high temperatures that are reached. The goal of this research study is to determine if scaling a Fresnel lens to a much larger size can result in a greater output efficiency that would allow for underdeveloped areas of the world to use the devices for heating and cooking applications. Specifically, larger Fresnel lens devices could potentially be used for heating & boiling large quantities of water in order to provide drinking water for areas of the globe where clean, safe drinking water does not currently exist. As long as extended periods of sunny weather are consistently available, Fresnel lens concentrators could reliably supply safe drinking water and cooking solutions.
