Study Shows Guardian Solar Mirrors Better
The Auburn Hills glass manufacturer Guardian Industries has announced the results of an independent performance study showing its EcoGuard Solar Boost-LP, a laminated parabolic mirror for concentrated solar power applications, provides industry-leading performance.
Tests conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory compared the reflectance of EcoGuard Solar Boost-LP with standard 4mm monolithic mirrors that are currently used in most large solar fields. The tests showed that EcoGuard Solar Boost-LP has a solar reflectance of 96.75 -- better than any measured 4-mm monolithic mirror.
NREL reported Guardian's laminated glass reflector has an initial solar-weighted hemispherical reflectance of 96.75 ± 0.09. It has an initial specular reflectance of 95.86 ± 0.08 into a 25-mrad cone angle and 7-mrad of 94.93 ± 0.97. NREL is testing EcoGuard Solar Boost-LP's long-term durability as well.
"The CSP industry needs mirrors that will remain highly reflective for 30+ years with little to no degradation and will help lower the cost of electricity generated by CSP to be competitive with natural gas," said NREL Senior Scientist Cheryl Kennedy.
Similar to a car windshield, EcoGuard Solar Boost-LP is comprised of two layers of glass that are laminated together with a PVB interlayer. A mirrored surface is contained within the laminate on the backside of the forward glass. The thin front glass results in a shorter transmission path and industry benchmark reflectivity performance. Guardian has years of experience in developing systems and efficiencies in such manufacturing processes.
EcoGuard Solar Boost-LP has also been extensively field tested for proven durability and validated using numerous accelerated test protocols. The combined glass and PVB layers provide superior rigidity and durability compared to traditional monolithic glass systems. The laminated construction also results in optimum damping, wind resistance and reduction of subsequent field component damage.
A global manufacturer of high-quality glass for more than 75 years, Guardian has comprehensive product and technology pipelines that consistently translate into high-performance glass products for a wide range of industries. Guardian is well positioned to provide the solar market with superior solutions that address current and future market needs.
For more information, please visit www.guardian.com/solarenergy.
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