Why do solar panels need a self-cleaning coating?

By ensuring better bonding and surface preparation, Intrface technology supports the long-term reliability of solar panels, especially in harsh weather and demanding environments. Table 3 represents the features various self-cleaning coatings developed by different companies. Table 3. Features of the self-cleaning coatings of different companies.

Are superhydrophobic self-cleaning coatings good for solar panels?

In Section 5 as disscussed, Walz et al. and Wahyuono et al. have applied superhydrophobic self-cleaning coatings on installed solar panel system and studied their performance. They have reported that, large scale coatings reduces fabrication cost as well as electricity cost.

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 TiO2 /silane coating possesses the WCA below 10°.

Why do PV panels need a self-cleaning coating?

With the progressive development in nanotechnology, the demands on self-cleaning coating increasing among the PV panel industry. The end-users look forward to the flexible coating that has an easy spray-fabrication technique besides saving energy and time and applicable on any glass scale.

What is self-cleaning coating on solar cell glass?

In 2016, Xu et al. have invented the self-cleaning coating on solar cell glass by using spin-coating and reactive ion etching. The prepared superhydrophobic self-cleaning coating possesses WCA around 154° and optical transmission coating around 88% in the wavelength of 300−800 nm.

Why do photovoltaic modules need a self-cleaning coating?

They are efficient but difficult to control accuracy. When applied to photovoltaic modules, it is crucial to consider the factors such as self-cleaning, transparency, anti-reflection, anti-icing, and durability. In future research, it is significant to improve the transparency, durability, and self-cleaning properties of coatings.