Selective covers for natural cooling devices
Abstract
Extraatmospheric space is practically a pure sink of radiation, and can be used as a nonconventional energy source. In previous papers we have shown that surfaces with an emissivity matched with the atmospheric 8-13-micron 'transparency window' (natural emitters) interact with cold space when exposed to clear sky at night, and undergo a sizable cooling effect. In this paper, starting from experimental results concerning the diurnal performances of natural emitters, the problem of their interaction with solar radiation is discussed, and the use of selective covers which shade the emitter from solar radiation, without preventing the interaction with cold space via emission of infra-red radiation is proposed.
- Publication:
-
Nuovo Cimento C Geophysics Space Physics C
- Pub Date:
- October 1978
- DOI:
- 10.1007/BF02507668
- Bibcode:
- 1978NCimC...1..419A
- Keywords:
-
- Cooling Systems;
- Diurnal Variations;
- Infrared Radiation;
- Solar Radiation Shielding;
- Thermionic Emitters;
- Coverings;
- Energy Sources;
- Nocturnal Variations;
- Optical Properties;
- Solar Reflectors