An experimental investigation of a solar chimney integrated with a bladeless wind turbine for sustainable energy harvesting

The current study explores the potential of combining small-scale solar chimney systems with blade-less wind turbines for sustainable energy solutions in Egypt through mathematical modelling, numerical simulation, and experimental work. The integration of a vortex bladeless turbine and a conventional horizontal axis wind turbine in a hybrid energy harvester solar chimney system (VBSCS) was evaluated, as well as the effect of changing the absorber material on improving the system's performance. Shredded rubber improves heat absorption in solar chimney collectors, optimizing energy conversion and providing a sustainable, eco-friendly solution while addressing challenges and cost-effectiveness in implementing this hybrid solution. The mathematical model predicted the highest power at 0.38 W, while the CFD model yielded 0.298 W. Experimental results showed power outputs of 0.18 and 0.25 W for the SCS with concrete and shredded rubber absorbers, respectively. In addition, the VBSCS with a concrete absorber produced 0.29 W. The determined percentage improvement over the SCS with a concrete absorber was 61.1 % for the VBSCS and 38.9 % for the SCS with a black rubber absorber. These findings demonstrate the delicate interplay of design aspects and material choices that influence the performance of both bladeless wind turbines and solar collector systems. •Noval solar chimney integrated with a vortex bladeless turbine has been studied experimentally and mathematically•Four solar chimney absorber materials, sand, wet sand, concrete, and shredded black rubber were studied experimentally.•Shredded rubber was used as an inexpensive and available absorbent material, supporting recycling and sustainability.•Shredded rubber outperforms concrete, sand, and wet sand as a solar radiation absorber.•A hybrid of a vortex bladeless turbine with a horizontal axis turbine in a solar chimney system increases output by 61.1%.