Experimental and numerical evaluation of a small array of ceramic foam volumetric absorbers

Abstract

This paper presents intermediate-scale experimental tests of a small 2 x 2 array of ceramic foam absorbers at CIEMAT-PSA (SSPS-CRS tower). Receiver air outlet temperatures of up to 900 °C have been reached. The experimental activities are supported by CFD simulations in order facilitate the selection process of the foam geometry for the final CAPTure receiver prototype (333 kW thermal), which will be installed at the same location.