Enhancing photovoltaic solar panel performance with integration of PCM-based spectral filter and self-cleaning coating

This research investigates the enhancement of photovoltaic (PV) solar panel performance through the application of a paraffin-based spectral splitter. The study aims to improve electrical efficiency and thermal management while mitigating dust deposition effects. A paraffin (RT25) spectral filter is placed above the glass layer of the PV panel, coupled with a ZnO-water nanofluid-filled mini-channel for cooling at the panel's bottom. Optical properties, derived from previous experimental work, are incorporated into simulations. Self-cleaning SiO2 nanoparticle coating is proposed to improve transmissivity of upper glass. Fresnel lens is used to intensify irradiation at two concentration ratios (CR). Three-dimensional simulations integrating source terms based on optical analysis were conducted. Key findings include a decrease in panel temperature (TPV) due to partial irradiation absorption by the spectral filter, leading to lower heat flux to the cooling zone. The spectral filter increased electrical efficiency (ηPV) by 11.28 % and 38.63 % at 20 and 40 min, respectively. The presence of the filter and coatings significantly improved temperature uniformity, with improvements of 68.77 % and 50.35 % at 10 and 40 min, respectively. Increasing CR resulted in a 2.95 % and 83.31 % rise in filter temperature (TPCM) and liquid fraction (LF), with a minor 1.56 % decrease in efficiency. At CR = 2, in the presence of the spectral filter, ηPV decreases by 38.62 %, accounting for dust effects, while it increases by 21.83 % with adding coating. The research highlights the potential of spectral filters and innovative coatings to enhance PV panel performance, offering a novel approach to sustainable and efficient solar energy systems.