Heat Transfer Fluids in Solar Thermal Power Plants: A Review

Abstract

As concentrated solar power (CSP) technology advances, the selection of effective heat transfer fluids (HTFs) remains crucial for optimizing thermal efficiency and energy storage capacity. This review provides a brief overview of the most commonly used HTFs in CSP applications—molten salts, synthetic oils, nanofluids, and gaseous fluids—highlighting their distinct thermophysical properties, applications, and performance characteristics. While molten salts and nanofluids show promise for high-temperature storage, challenges like high melting points, corrosion, and cost constraints persist. Addressing these limitations through innovative HTF formulations and enhanced material compatibility will be essential to maximize CSP efficiency and sustainability. Future research into advanced HTFs could lead to significant improvements in CSP performance, supporting a shift towards reliable, renewable energy solutions.