Environmental effects of solar-thermal power systems. The potential production of air pollutants near STPS receiver surfaces

Data and analysis addressing the potential production of air pollutants in the high temperature, high solar intensity beam environment adjacent to a solar-thermal power system (STPS) receiver are presented. Results, (chemical equilibria, chemical kintics, mass emission rates transport and dispersion), indicate that some air pollutants may be produced as a result of operation of large scale central receiver STPS in quantities sufficient to be of regulatory concern. These will require steps toward management. Primary concern focuses on nitric oxide (NO), and its downstream potential pollutant products. In all likelihood the quantities produced will be small, and fully merit for solar its general recognition as an environmentally benign energy technology. Furthermore, for many solar configurations and modes of operation even this limited concern may not apply. Worst case conditions, however, are capable of leading to significant impacts from large scale high temperature STPS facilities.