Simulation of behavior of solar panel in existence of nanomaterial as cooling system

Abstract

In current work, the productivity of a photovoltaic thermal (PVT) unit impacted by dust accumulation was improved using magnetic force. The magnetic force was implemented to a cooling duct with Y-shaped fins, while solar irradiation was included as heat sources in the equations. Dust effects were simulated by adjusting the optical properties. The addition of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) layer boosted the electrical output. The cooling fluid was a homogeneous water and iron oxide mixture. Dust accumulation led to a 9.3 % drop in thermal performance, but the use of magnetic force enhanced electrical efficiency. Higher concentrations of additives improved system performance, with a maximum gain of 15.88 % at the highest inlet velocity (Vinlet). Increasing Vinlet further improved thermal efficiency (ηth) by 10.96 %, photovoltaic efficiency (ηPV) by 1.16 %, and thermoelectric efficiency (ηTE) by 33.53 %. Moreover, the application of Lorentz force increased isothermal uniformity by approximately 5.91 %

Keywords

• Solar panel
• Dust deposition
• TEG
• Ferrofluid
• Numerical simulation