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Print Price: $57.95

Format:
Paperback
256 pp.
150 b/w illustrations, 189 mm x 246 mm

ISBN-13:
9780199652112

Publication date:
July 2015

Imprint: OUP UK

Solar Energy

An Introduction

Michael E. Mackay

Solar Energy presents an introduction to all aspects of solar energy, from photovoltaic devices to active and passive solar thermal energy conversion, giving both a detailed and broad perspective of the field. It is aimed at the beginner involved in solar energy or a related field, or for someone wanting to gain a broader perspective of solar energy technologies.

A chapter considering solar radiation, basic principles applied to solar energy, semiconductor physics, and light absorption brings the reader on equal footing with the technology of either solar generated electrical current or useful heat. Details of how a solar cell works and then production of current from a photovoltaic device is discussed. Characterization of a solar cell is examined, allowing one the ability to interpret the current-voltage relation, followed by discussion of parameter extraction from this relation. This information can be used to understand what limits the performance of a given solar cell with the potential to optimize its performance. Applications of solar thermal energy are reviewed in detail from passive applications, for example the solar chimney, to active, such as the solar (power) tower, flat plate water heater, and solar thermal electricity generation. Consistency of analysis between the solar thermal applications is used enabling the reader to fully appreciate similarities and dissimilarities between these technologies. Ultimately, the scientist or engineer can understand existing systems, either photovoltaic or solar thermal devices, and design their own technology given the information in this book.

Readership : Advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students, and researchers in solar energy and industry.

1. Why solar energy is important
2. Solar radiation
3. Basic principles
4. Electrons in solids
5. Light absorption
6. The photovoltaic device
7. The solar chimney and tower
8. The flat plate solar energy collector
9. Solar thermal energy generated electricity
Appendix A: Physical properties

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Michael E. Mackay received his undergraduate degree in chemical engineering with distinction from the University of Delaware, then worked for Proctor and Gamble prior to attending graduate school at the University of Illinois (Urbana) where he received M.S. and PhD degrees in chemical engineering. He subsequently became a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Melbourne (Australia), and has had positions at the University of Queensland (Australia), Stevens Institute of Technology, Michigan State University, and is presently the distinguished Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Delaware. He is a nationally and internationally known leader in nanotechnology specializing in how nanoparticles improve polymer performance and their use in making novel devices and materials. Recently, he has focused his research efforts to make polymer-based solar cells that that can be made on any surface.

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Special Features

Introductory textbook on solar energy at the advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate level.
Provides a consistent overview of solar photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies.
Includes detailed discussion of solar technologies such the solar chimney, solar (power) tower, and solar-thermal electricity generation.
Includes plenty of tutorial material, images, examples, end-of-chapter exercises.
Information presented in the book can be applied to the reader's problem at hand.
Provides a balanced and compelling case for why use of solar energy should be pursued.