Application and prospects of high-temperature heat pipe technology in concentrating solar thermal collector systems

Abstract

Against the backdrop of global energy transition, concentrated solar thermal (CST) collector systems offer efficient conversion of solar energy into high-grade thermal energy, representing a critical pathway for renewable energy development. However, the synergistic enhancement of power output and reliability faces three core limitations: (1) extreme non-uniform heat flux induced by elevated concentration ratios; (2) significant thermal losses leading to low collection efficiency; and (3) severe mismatch between incident heat flux and operating temperatures at the hot surface. These challenges necessitate breakthroughs in high-temperature heat transfer enhancement to mitigate local overheating and thermal deformation. This review first analyzes the formation mechanisms and detrimental effects of non-uniform heat flux. It then elaborates on collector optimization strategies and the inherent advantages of high-temperature heat pipe (HTHP) technology. HTHPs emerge as a core solution to these bottlenecks due to their exceptional thermal conductivity, inherent temperature homogenization capability, and rapid thermal response. Nevertheless, aspects such as cold startup performance and heat transfer limits require further in-depth investigation. This paper systematically reviews the potential of HTHPs in boosting the efficiency and reliability of concentrating solar thermal collection systems. It examines the role of HTHP technology in enabling efficient operation and safe management within CST systems. Furthermore, it synthesizes the principles, recent advancements, and challenges associated with novel HTHP technologies applicable to high-concentration-ratio CST collectors and provides an outlook on future development directions.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, 2026 · DOI ↗