Comparative Analysis of Fresnel Lens Performance in Malaysia and Nigeria

Abstract

Fresnel lens concentrator made from (PMMA poly methyl metha crylate) was chosen for it`s durability, efficiency and light weight as a solar thermal concentrator for an outdoor experiments in two different tropical climates for comparison. The data collected (Stagnation temperature, ambient temperature and solar irradiance) was used to determine and compare the Figure of merit and maximum thermal conversion efficiency for the lens at no load in both countries. The results indicate that the Fresnel lens may likely perform better in Nigeria dry (tropical climate) than in Malaysia wet (tropical climate). This could be utilized to develop sustainable energy devices for cooking and other thermal energy generation to reduce health risk and energy cost.

Keywords: Fresnel lens, Efficiency, Figure of Merit, Tropical Climate, stagnation Temperature