研究目的
To demonstrate the simultaneous and synergistic harvesting of energy from the sun and outer space using a configuration where a solar absorber that is transparent in mid-infrared is placed above a radiative cooler.
研究成果
The experiment successfully demonstrated the simultaneous and synergistic harvesting of energy from the sun and outer space using the same physical area. The solar absorber was heated to 24°C above the ambient temperature, while the radiative cooler was cooled to 29°C below the ambient temperature. This work opens a new avenue for harvesting renewable energy resources by combining solar energy harvesting and radiative cooling technologies.
研究不足
The key practical limitation is the cost of the ZnSe window used in the vacuum chamber, which could be replaced with cheaper materials like silicon or germanium for large-scale deployment. Additionally, thermal management is a major consideration to minimize parasitic heat losses through conduction and convection to the environment.
1：Experimental Design and Method Selection:
The experiment involved placing a solar absorber that is transparent in mid-infrared above a radiative cooler to simultaneously harvest energy from the sun and outer space. The solar absorber was a 500-μm-thick undoped germanium wafer with double-side antireflection coatings for the mid-infrared wavelength range. The radiative cooler was a selective emitter designed from previous work, consisting of a 70-nm-thick silicon nitride layer, a 700-nm-thick amorphous silicon layer, and a 150-nm-thick aluminum layer from top to bottom, with a silicon wafer underneath for mechanical support.
2：Sample Selection and Data Sources:
The temperatures of the solar absorber and the radiative cooler were measured using K-type thermocouples. The solar irradiance was also measured.
3：List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:
The setup included a germanium solar absorber, a ZnSe window for mechanical support and infrared transparency, a vacuum chamber to minimize parasitic heat losses, and radiation shields.
4：Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:
The experimental setup was exposed to direct sunlight under a clear sky, and temperatures were measured from sunrise to sunset over a total period of 14 hours.
5：Data Analysis Methods:
The experimental results were compared with theoretical predictions to validate the concept of simultaneous energy harvesting from the sun and outer space.
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