Experimental Performance Optimization of LDPE/PVC Solar Chimney Power Plant: Comparative Analysis of Absorber Materials and Air Inlet Configurations

experimental investigation examining the influence of absorber material selection and air inlet configuration on the operational efficiency of small- scale solar chimney power plants (SCPPs). A fully functional prototype system was constructed and extensively tested at the University of Tiaret, Algeria, featuring a 6- meter polyvinyl chloride (PVC) chimney tower integrated with a 3- meter diameter low- density polyethylene (LDPE) collector assembly. The experimental methodology involved systematic monitoring of critical performance parameters, includingair velocity profiles, temperature distribution patterns, and humidity variations across multiple system configurationsover extended operational periods. Two distinct absorber materials were evaluated: high- reflectivity aluminum and high- absorption black polymer, tested in combination with varying air inlet configurations ranging from single to quintuple inlet designs. Comprehensive data acquisition was achieved through strategically positioned LM35 temperature sensors, PCE-THA 10 thermo- hygro-anemometer measurements, and Arduino Mega microcontroller- based data logging systems. Experimental results demonstrate that the optimal configuration combines a black polymer absorber with a dual air inlet design, achieving superior thermal performance with maximum air temperatures reaching 78°C and chimney updraft velocities of 2.8 m/s during peak solar irradiation periods. The study reveals distinct operational phases characterized by 12-13 hours of active airflow generation, with humidity effects significantly influencing system thermodynamics, particularly in moisture-sensitive configurations. These findings provide critical design optimization data for enhancing SCPP system efficiency and establish a foundation for scaling renewable energy applications in arid and semi-arid regions where conventional energy infrastructure may be limited.