Nano‐Coating Materials for Augmented Power Output, Minimized Water Usage in Cleaning, and Self‐Cleaning Capabilities for PV Panels
Ali M. Jawarneh, Feras AL‐Asali, Meslam Alajmi, Yazan Arafat, Ammar Al Hasanat, Ayah Al Jaouni, Muayyad Abo ShokorABSTRACT
This paper experimentally investigates the use of Nano‐Coating materials (TiO 2 and SiO 2 ) to analyze their effects on solar PV cells and identify the optimal ratio for enhancing solar panel performance. The study includes an experimental module to measure voltage, current, temperature, and other relevant data, comparing average electrical energy production before and after applying the coating. Panels coated with a 30% TiO 2 and 70% SiO 2 mixture demonstrated improved efficiency across all types. Uncoated panels showed a 6% efficiency increase with cleaning, while single‐layer nano‐coated panels achieved a 9% increase without cleaning and a 13% increase with cleaning, marking the highest recorded improvement. Two‐layer nano‐coated panels exhibited an 8% efficiency gain without cleaning and a 10% increase with cleaning, slightly lower than the cleaned single‐layer coating. Additionally, water consumption for cleaning was reduced, with single‐layer coated panels requiring 30% less water and double‐layer coated panels using 20% less compared to uncoated panels. The application of TiO 2 and SiO 2 nanofluids enhances the panels' self‐cleaning properties, reducing dust accumulation and leading to higher output power and improved overall efficiency.