Formulation of thermosetting polyurethane resin films and their application in solar concentrators

In recent decades, the growing concern about climate change has highlighted the importance of renewable energy, particularly solar energy. Luminescent Solar Concentrators (LSCs) represent a promising technology to enhance solar energy harvesting efficiency of conventional and emerging photovoltaic technologies. This thesis focuses on the use of thermosetting polyurethane films as waveguides in LSC devices, where organic dyes, specifically VG1-C8 and D149, are embedded to act as emitting molecules. The research aims to optimize the formulation process of polyurethane films and investigate the compatibility and integration of two different dye systems into the polymeric matrix. These systems include industrially available polyols and isocyanates to formulate polyurethanes with standardized properties, as well as dyes selected for their absorption in the visible light spectrum. The ultimate goal is to enhance the optical properties of LSC devices by achieving an efficient interaction between the polyurethane matrix and the dyes, enabling the films to function as effective waveguides for light transmission. The thesis also evaluates the thermal stability and optical performance of the dyed polyurethane films, complemented by emission measurements and aging tests to assess their durability and practical suitability for solar energy applications.