Research on aerial solar pond engineering technology

Abstract

On August 1, 2023, the world's first aerial solar pond assembly system was launched at the Weifang University Science and Technology Park in China.This research facility takes an area of 155.3 m2 and incorporates 43 solar pond engineering glass panels with a total lighting area of 20 m2. The visible light transmittance is 79.62%, the direct solar light transmittance is 63.22%, the infrared light transmittance is 16.6%, and the direct infrared solar light transmittance is 35.4%. For the triple-glazed double- cavity structure, the visible light transmittance exceeds 88%, and the average infrared light blocking rate is as high as 84%. In the mid and far-infrared radiation segments, the infrared blocking rate is nearly 100%. During a full operational period (365 days), the system demonstrated excellent performance on lighting, heat collection, and thermal insulation, and maintained a cool environment in summer and a warm one in winter. This article provides a concise overview of the sealing performance, mechanical properties, weather resistance, and comparability with similar products of solar pond glass. It outlines the processing requirements for solar pond engineering glass, identifies issues that require further research, and presents interim research findings.