Bi-layered electromagnetic radiation collector

A solar collector device 10, comprising a solar-energy absorption element 22 having a primary absorption layer 24a including carbon nano-elements and a secondary absorption layer 24b preferably formed of carbon fiber. A heat-exchange element 26 is connected to the secondary absorption layer 24h, providing a plurality of thermally conductive baffles 32 for conducting thermal energy to a heat-transfer fluid 36, such as water. The structure is surrounded by an enclosure 14 and a transparent cover 20, which allows solar radiation to fall on the solar-energy absorption clement 22. A UV-protection layer 28 is additionally provided to protect the solar-energy absorption element 22 from damage.