Enhancing Photovoltaic Panel Performance through Hybrid Nanoparticle Cooling: A Study on Zinc Oxide and Aluminum Oxide Nanofluids

Abstract

High operating temperatures, particularly under conditions of high solar irradiation have adverse effects on the performance of the photovoltaic (PV) panels. The efficiency of electricity generation decreases with an increase in operating temperature, and therefore, minimizing the operating temperature is essential. Thus, efficient cooling systems are of significant importance, particularly in areas with scorching heat during the day. Hybrid nanoparticles have been identified as one of the most effective methods in utilizing the concept of PV cooling because of their special characteristics that can help improve the efficiency of solar panels in the long run. These nanoparticles offer the best heat dissipation and convective heat transfer alongside better light trapping and stability and are relatively cheaper to produce, thus playing a central role in enhancing the cooling effectiveness in photovoltaic systems. In our view, depending on these combined forces, hybrid nanoparticles can enhance the general effectiveness, dependability, and efficacy of solar panels as a high-potential instrument for solar power extraction. This study sought to determine the most effective ZnO and Al₂O₃ Nanofluids concentrations in improving the performance of PV modules. Five PV modules were placed side by side. One of them was a reference sample; the other four were coated on the backside with a range of hybrid nanofluid concentrations. K-type thermocouples were used to monitor the hourly backside thermal profile of each module to ensure thermal integrity. Moreover, a data logger monitored the current and the voltage of each PV during the experiment. In general, the coated modules had significantly better results compared to the control. The best improvement in the generated output power was obtained when 0. 4% Al₂O₃ and 0.2% ZnO reached 28.4% and increased efficiency to 29.6%.

Keywords

• hybrid nanoparticles
• pv cooling system
• zinc oxide
• aluminium oxide