Anti-pollution film for photovoltaic panels

Can nano-coating thin film reduce dust accumulation on PV panels?

Scientific Reports 14, Article number: 23013 (2024) Cite this article Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) panels in arid regions diminishes solar energy absorption and panel efficiency. In this study, the effectiveness of a self-cleaning nano-coating thin film is evaluated in reducing dust accumulation and improving PV Panel efficiency.

Does a self-cleaning nano-coating thin film improve PV panel efficiency?

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) panels in arid regions diminishes solar energy absorption and panel efficiency. In this study, the effectiveness of a self-cleaning nano-coating thin film is evaluated in reducing dust accumulation and improving PV Panel efficiency.

Do PV modules have anti-reflection coatings?

These reflection losses can be addressed by the use of anti-reflection (AR) coatings, and currently around 90% of commercial PV modules are supplied with an AR coating applied to the cover glass , . The widespread use of AR coatings is a relatively recent development.

Why do photovoltaic panels need a transparent coating?

When sunlight shines on the photovoltaic panel, part of the visible light will be reflected, and the rest will be converted and utilized. Therefore, the transparency and anti-reflection of the self-cleaning coatings applied on photovoltaic modules cannot be ignored.

Which nanomaterial can be used for self-cleaning coating on solar PV panels?

Apart from SiO 2 nanomaterial, titanium dioxide (TiO 2) is another well-known nanomaterial that can be used for self-cleaning coating on solar PV panels as it possesses both hydrophilic and photocatalysis properties. The developed TiO 2 /silane coating possesses the WCA below 10°.

How effective are coatings on PV panels?

The effectiveness of coatings applied to PV panels depends on a complex interplay of factors. These factors include the type and size of particulate matter present in the environment, and prevailing weather conditions. Broadly, these coatings can be categorized into two main classes: hydrophobic and hydrophilic.