Photovoltaic panel scale self-cleaning agent

Why do photovoltaic panels need a self-cleaning coating?

The self-cleaning coating has attracted extensive attention in the photovoltaic industry and the scientific community because of its unique mechanism and high adaptability. Therefore, an efficient and stable self-cleaning coating is necessary to protect the cover glass on the photovoltaic panel. There are many self-cleaning phenomena in nature.

What is a self-cleaning photovoltaic (PV) panel?

Self-cleaning photovoltaic (PV) panel. 2211-3398/© 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Dust is a small dry solid particle in the air that is emerged from natural forces (wind, volcanic eruption, and chemical) or man-made processes (crushing, grinding, milling, drilling, demolition, etc.) with its diameter ranging from 1 to 100 μm .

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°.

Which method is suitable for self-cleaning coating of photovoltaic modules?

The preparation methods suitable for self-cleaning coating of photovoltaic modules include LBL, CVD, sol–gel method, and plasma-etching technology. LBL, CVD and sol–gel technologies are all CVD-based surface treatment technologies, which have difficulty in precision control. Sol–gel method and LBL are both economical.

Which surface treatment is suitable for preparing photovoltaic self-cleaning surfaces?

CVD-based surface treatment is suitable for preparing photovoltaic self-cleaning surfaces. These methods prepare self-cleaning surfaces by reacting gaseous substances with hot surfaces and depositing them on the surface. They are efficient but difficult to control accuracy.

What is the difference between self-cleaning and uncoated photovoltaic modules?

In contrast, self-cleaning coatings have lower cost and more reliable technology. Piliougine et al. (2013) compared the power generated by uncoated and coated photovoltaic modules and found that the module with self-cleaning coating lost 2.5% of energy every day, while the uncoated module lost about 3.3%.