Soiling, Adhesion, and Surface Characterization of Concentrated Solar Power Reflectors: Insights and Challenges in the MENA Region

Desert environments are prime locations for concentrated solar power (CSP) applications due to abundant direct normal irradiance. Despite this advantage, the accumulation and adhesion of dust on CSP mirror surfaces present significant challenges to plant efficiency. This paper comprehensively explores soiling phenomena and dust adhesion mechanisms, complemented by advanced measurement techniques tailored for CSP reflector mirrors. By elucidating the factors influencing dust accumulation and delving into the thermodynamics of self-cleaning coatings, alongside an analysis of various mirror materials, this study aims to enrich our understanding of soiling in CSP systems. This study aims to provide valuable insights that will help develop strategies to reduce dust-related efficiency losses in CSP plants, ultimately supporting the development of more reliable and sustainable solar energy solutions for the MENA region.