Experimental and theoretical performance of a demonstration solar chimney model - Part II: Experimental and theoretical results and economic analysis

This paper describes details of the experimental program conducted to assess the viability of the solar chimney concept. A demonstration model was designed and built and its theoretical and experimental performance was examined. Two experimental modifications were tried on the collector: (1) extending the collector base and (2) introducing an intermediate absorber. The former modification helped in enhancing the air temperature, while the latter contributed to increasing the air temperature as well as the mass flow rate inside the chimney. Both enhancements helped to increase the overall chimney power output. Theoretical and experimental performance results of this demonstration model are presented in this paper, while the mathematical model developed in Part I was used to predict the performance of much larger systems. Mathematical model results were validated by comparing them to published data on the solar chimney system built in Manzanares, Spain. Also, an economic assessment of the system costs are presented. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.