Solar Thermal Chemical Processing Research: A Path Toward Sustainable Energy Technology

 

by

 

Robert Palumbo

Valparaiso University

 

 

 

There is enough solar energy reaching the earth to supply the current world demand for energy.  But this radiation is dilute, intermittent, and unequally distributed.  So how can one grab hold of a sunbeam and either immediately use it for industrial purposes, or store it and transport it from the sunny regions of the earth to the population centers to be used when it is needed?  I present a selection of the latest research findings to illustrate the current state of solar chemistry science and technology as well as describe the future challenges that must be met if this path is to lead us to a palette of sustainable energy technology options.