Parabolic Trough Collectors (PTCs) are one of the most commonly used Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies for capturing solar energy for thermal uses. These systems use a parabolic-shaped mirror to focus sunlight onto a receiver tube that runs along the focal line of the collector. The solar energy is then turned into heat, which can be used for making electricity, heating industries, producing fresh water, and heating water. Because of their good efficiency, ability to work on a large scale, and clean operation, parabolic trough collectors are getting a lot of attention in renewable energy research. This review paper looks at the design, how they work, parts they have, their thermal performance, applications, strengths, weaknesses, and recent improvements in PTC technology. The paper also highlights the need to enhance optical efficiency, the heat transfer fluids, and thermal storage systems to improve collector performance and help in developing sustainable energy.
Pawar et al. (2026) studied this question.