Showing papers by "Graham Morrison published in 2007"
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a correlation for natural circulation flow rate through single-ended water-in-glass evacuated tubes mounted over a diffuse reflector, which was correlated in terms of solar input, tank temperature, collector inclination and tube aspect ratio.
132 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the performance of a solar-boosted heat pump water heater (HPWH) operating under full load and part load conditions was determined in an outdoor experimental study using flat unglazed aluminium solar evaporator panels to absorb solar and ambient energy.
40 citations
21 Dec 2007
TL;DR: In this paper, a water-methanol mixture flows through an array of parallel micro-channels which are fabricated into a silicon matrix using conventional micro-fabrication techniques, and a vacuum layer is interposed between the channels and the external surface to thermally insulate the channels from the ambient temperature.
Abstract: This study presents a new concept that combines microtechnology with solar thermal energy to provide a free portable
energy source. A water-methanol mixture flows through an array of parallel microchannels which are fabricated into a
silicon matrix using conventional micro-fabrication techniques. A vacuum layer is interposed between the channels and
the external surface to thermally insulate the channels from the ambient temperature. A selective coating is deposited on
one of the vacuum walls to absorb the short wavelength incoming radiation and reduce the long wavelength radiation,
hence reducing the heat losses. A geometry and material optimization is still being developed in order to obtain the
highest possible efficiency for the micro-heater, while keeping a low pressure drop in the micro-channels. The methanol
outlet temperature is predicted to be higher than 250°C. This temperature is required for hydrogen production in a
methanol reforming micro-reactor. Therefore, it is envisaged that the micro-solar heater will supply the thermal energy
needed for hydrogen generation, that can later be used as fuel for microfuel cells. Both technologies can be integrated in
a portable device.
4 citations