Characterization of Innovative Materials and Composites for Concentrated Solar Power Applications

Concentrated solar power (CSP) systems harness solar radiation by concentrating sunlight to generate high-temperature heat, enabling electricity generation via thermodynamic cycles and integration with cost-effective thermal energy storage (TES) systems [1]. CSP can also work in hybrid mode with Concentrated PhotoVoltaic (CPV) panels. Unlike photovoltaic (PV) technologies, CSP provides dispatchable renewable power, making it attractive for flexible grid operation and industrial heat applications [1]. In recent years, significant research has focused on improving the efficiency, durability, and economic viability of CSP systems, considering also the application in remote areas. Key innovations include advanced receiver designs capable of operating above 800–1000 °C and novel materials with enhanced optical, thermal, and corrosion resistance properties [2]. This work presents preliminary results on the characterization of innovative materials and composites for applications in CSP receivers (including ceramic matrix composites (CMC), solid particle and ceramic volumetric receivers [3]) and on a novel composite made of vitrimeric polymer [4] reinforced with natural fibres, such as flax (linen) [5]. Vitrimers and natural fibres are gaining increasing attention as promising materials for recyclable and sustainable composites. In particular, a vitrimeric matrix could bring in the best of thermoset and thermoplastic polymers, because this exciting renewable polymer type has the potential to achieve the levels of strength, durability, and chemical resistance of thermosets (traditionally used as matrix in organic composites), while exhibiting suitable end of life recyclability, like thermoplastics [6]. This is thanks to their chemical structure, involving dynamic covalent crosslinks that impart stability, while ultimately allowing these polymers to be reprocessable. Current challenges and future research opportunities in CSP materials are also highlighted, with emphasis on extending operational lifetimes, reducing cost, and enabling next-generation CSP architectures.