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. 2022;12(12):3945-3962.
doi: 10.1007/s13204-022-02633-0. Epub 2022 Sep 20.

Effects of nanocoatings on the temperature-dependent cell parameters and power generation of photovoltaic panels

R Muhammad Ehsan  1   2 , Sishaj P Simon  2 , Sundareswaran Kinattingal  2 , Kevin Ark Kumar  1 , T Sriharsha  1
Affiliations

Effects of nanocoatings on the temperature-dependent cell parameters and power generation of photovoltaic panels

R Muhammad Ehsan et al. Appl Nanosci. 2022.

Abstract

Operational requirements of photovoltaic (PV) modules result in their inherent exposure to harsh environmental conditions. The performance of solar cells decreases with increasing temperature, with both efficiency and power output getting affected. High ambient temperature coupled with irradiance absorption leads to an elevated photovoltaic cell operating temperature, adversely affecting the panels' lifespan. Superhydrophobic nanocoatings are the preferred solution to reduce the accumulation of dust (soiling) over the surface of the panels. This article aims to study the effects of nanocoatings on module operating temperature and temperature-dependent cell parameters, such as open-circuit voltage ( V oc ), short-circuit current ( I sc ) and power generation. The application of nanocoating over the surface of solar panels reduces the operating temperatures while improving power generation in a temperate location with high annual atmospheric temperatures.

Keywords: Nanocoatings; Photovoltaics; Solar cell temperature; Solar power generation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interestOn behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
SEM micrographs of coating “B” at different magnifications
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Transmittance plot of the nanocoating solutions
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Transmittance plots of coated surfaces with single and multiple layers
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Voc of the three coated panels with the uncoated panel
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Voc of all panels with irradiance (September 12, 2021)
Fig. 6
Fig. 6
Isc for coated and uncoated panels with irradiance
Fig. 7
Fig. 7
Top and bottom surface temperatures of coated and uncoated panels after prolonged exposure
Fig. 8
Fig. 8
Top and bottom panel surface temperatures for coated and uncoated panels with atmospheric temperature
Fig. 9
Fig. 9
Thermal images of the solar panels under clear and cloudy conditions
Fig. 10
Fig. 10
Power generated from coated and uncoated panels with atmospheric temperature and irradiance
Fig. 11
Fig. 11
Power generated from coated and uncoated panels with irradiance after prolonged exposure
Fig. 12
Fig. 12
Load voltage and current of coated and uncoated panels with power generation
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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