Abstract

20 A methodology for the evaluation of the specularity error of a polymeric film optical coating is presented. The methodology is based on the comparison of images from the sun produced by two high quality spherical mirrors, one covered with a highly specular evaporated aluminum film, and the second one with the polymeric film under study. This film is a commercial product known as Reflectech®. To determine the specularity error, both images are reproduced by means of ray tracing optical simulations. Those simulations use the angular brightness distribution from the sun as input, which were recorded by means of a specially developed solar scope. Significant differences are obtained between images of the sun generated by both mirrors. However, the specularity error of the coating under consideration is found to be just 0.71 mrad. This error is quite small making the polymeric coating highly appropriate for point focus concentration systems. This is illustrated by calculations for a parabolic dish concentrator.