Review of full-spectrum solar energy systems based on spectral splitting technology

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy Vol. 81; pp. 1235 - 1255
• Main Authors: Guan, Jian, Sun, Jie, Shi, Xiuting, Wei, Jinjia
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 04.09.2024
• Subjects: Full-spectrum; Solar energy; Spectral splitting; System integration; System topology; Full-spectrum; Spectral splitting; System topology; Solar energy; System integration
• ISSN: 0360-3199
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.07.300

As a widespread, abundant and zero-emission renewable energy source, solar energy has garnered significant attention as a highly feasible alternative to fossil fuels in the global energy transition. However, low overall utilization efficiency is a considerable technical obstacle to the traditional solar energy systems. In recent decades, the full-spectrum solar energy systems, where diverse solar spectral conversion methods can be synergized based on the spectral splitting technology, becomes one of the most promising solutions. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art full-spectrum solar energy systems based on spectral splitting technology. The four mainstream approaches of spectral splitting based on reflection, diffraction, refraction and absorption are introduced with the physical mechanisms and characteristics. Subsequently, tens of typical full-spectrum solar energy systems based on spectral splitting are categorized regarding energy flow topology into 4 major modes and 17 sub-modes with respective detailed analysis focused on the system integration and distinctive advantage. Next, the existing and potential applications possible for different spectral bands are summarized. Finally, conclusions and perspectives are given as the guidance for future research. •4 mainstream approaches of spectral splitting (SS) are comparatively introduced.•Tens of full-spectrum solar energy systems based on SS are chosen as samples.•System samples are topologically categorized into 4 major modes and 17 sub-modes.•Existing and potential applications possible for different spectral bands are summarized.•Conclusions and perspectives are given as the guidance for future research.