Improving solar panel performance using a paraffin wax/copper oxide nanoparticle hybrid phase change material

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Photovoltaic (PV) panel efficiency declines significantly with rising temperatures under solar irradiation.
• High operating temperatures pose a critical challenge for PV systems, especially in hot climates, limiting their energy output and lifespan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel hybrid phase-change material (PCM) for effective thermal management of PV panels.
• To optimize the concentration of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) in paraffin wax for enhanced thermal conductivity and cooling performance.

Main Methods:

• Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) were synthesized via chemical precipitation and characterized.
• Hybrid PCMs were formulated by incorporating CuO NPs into paraffin wax at concentrations ranging from 0.5-3 wt%.
• The nano-enhanced PCM was applied to the rear of PV panels as a passive cooling system.

Main Results:

• The optimal 2 wt% CuO NP concentration resulted in a 381.8% enhancement in thermal conductivity compared to pure paraffin.
• The nano-enhanced PCM reduced PV panel operating temperature by an average of 14.4 °C.
• This led to a 29.11% increase in maximum power output and improved energy conversion efficiency from 9.44% to 12.18%.

Conclusions:

• The developed nano-enhanced PCM offers a practical and efficient solution for mitigating PV panel temperature rise.
• Optimized CuO NP concentrations significantly improve thermal conductivity and PV performance under high-temperature conditions.
• This technology has the potential to enhance the efficiency and longevity of solar energy systems.