Numerical investigation of solar collectors as a potential source for sintering of ZrB2

Abstract

Sintering of ceramics is an energy-consuming process that needs high temperatures, therefore, in the present work; solar energy is used to produce high temperatures for the sintering aim of different materials. Solar energy concentrators increase the intensity of incident energy to the receiver provides high temperatures. Ultrahigh-temperature ceramics (UHTCs) due to their high melting point can also be a good alternative for receiver materials. In the present work, ZrB2 is introduced as an alternative material for solar receivers which can withstand high temperatures of sintering. The governing equations, including heat radiation and conduction ones are solved numerically using the finite element method. Transient heat transfer in the concentrator-collector system is investigated to check the feasibility of high temperatures needs for sintering at the receiver. The highest temperature of 1680 °C was achieved after 15 minutes at the focal point of the concentrator when the solar heat flux of 6.86 w/mm2 used for the location of the city of Ardabil in Iran. The obtained temperature can be used to sintering of some groups of materials.