Abstract
Electrostatic dust removal technology based on transparent conductive films has emerged as a research focal point in the field of solar panel dust removal. The efficiency of this technology is intimately tied to the performance of the transparent conductive film. This study aims to address the application demands of electrostatic dust removal for solar panels by fabricating a transparent conductive film composed of silver nanowires (AgNWs) embedded in epoxy resin (EP). Experimental results demonstrate a significant increase in dust removal efficiency with an optimized AgNWs loading, highlighting the potential of this film for enhancing solar panel performance.
1. Introduction
Solar energy, harnessed through photovoltaic (PV) panels, represents a pivotal renewable energy source. However, dust accumulation on PV panels impairs their efficiency, necessitating effective dust removal strategies. Among these, electrostatic dust removal technology, leveraging transparent conductive films, has shown promise. The performance of these films is crucial and directly impacts the dust removal efficiency and, consequently, the power generation capacity of solar panels.
2. Literature Review
Previous studies have explored various transparent conductive materials, including indium tin oxide (ITO), transparent conductive oxides, carbon nanotubes, metal nanowires, conductive polymers, and graphene. Among them, AgNWs-based films stand out due to their exceptional optical and electrical properties, along with their compatibility with roll-to-roll processing. However, challenges such as poor adhesion to substrates, stability issues, and susceptibility to aging under UV exposure persist, necessitating further research to develop films suitable for PV panel applications.
3. Materials and Methods
3.1. Film Preparation
To address these challenges, we formulated a conductive ink with AgNWs dispersed in epoxy resin. The ink was then applied to the PV panel surface using a knife-coating method to form a uniform film. The film was subsequently cured to embed and fix the AgNWs within the resin matrix, enhancing adhesion and durability.
3.2. Experimental Setup
The dust removal experiments were conducted using a setup comprising a PV panel coated with the AgNWs-EP film, a metal plate positioned above the panel to create an electric field, and a high-voltage DC power supply. Desert sand was used to simulate dust particles, and the dust removal efficiency was evaluated by measuring the weight loss of the panel before and after dust removal.
4. Results and Discussion
4.1. Film Characterization
Table 1 summarizes the electrical and optical properties of the AgNWs-EP films prepared with different AgNWs loading levels.
| AgNWs Loading (phr) | Sheet Resistance (Ω/□) | Transmittance (T, %) | Haze (H, %) | Dust Removal Suitability Index (K_N) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | – | 92.3 | 1.2 | – |
| 5000 | High | High | Low | Low |
| 10000 | – | – | – | – |
| 20000 | – | – | – | – |
| 40000 | ~10^8 | 53.93 | 37.94 | 0.48 |
| 80000 | 107 | Lower | Higher | – |
The sheet resistance decreased with increasing AgNWs loading, reaching a minimum of 107 Ω/□ at 80000 phr. However, the transmittance decreased while haze increased with higher AgNWs content. The dust removal suitability index (K_N) peaked at 40000 phr.
4.2. Dust Removal Efficiency
The dust removal efficiency of the AgNWs-EP films.
The dust removal rate increased with AgNWs loading, achieving a maximum of 97.77% at 80000 phr. Concurrently, the power generation efficiency of the PV panel improved by 40.84% relative to the uncoated panel.
4.3. Aging and Durability Tests
After 600 hours of accelerated UV aging and mechanical durability testing, the films exhibited excellent aging resistance, maintaining their performance. The UV aging test results.
The transmittance decreased by an average of 4.96%, while haze increased by 7.20%. The dust removal efficiency decreased by an average of 12.84%, indicating good stability under UV exposure.
5. Conclusion
This study presents a method for preparing AgNWs-EP transparent conductive films suitable for electrostatic dust removal on solar panels. The films exhibited high dust removal efficiency and improved PV panel power generation with optimized AgNWs loading. They also demonstrated excellent aging resistance and mechanical durability. However, further research is needed to enhance film adhesion to substrates and improve conductivity and transmittance to fully meet the application demands of solar panel dust removal.
6. Future Work
To further advance this technology, pilot applications should be conducted to evaluate the actual dust removal efficiency and long-term durability of the films in real-world conditions. Additionally, research into alternative materials and fabrication techniques could yield even more efficient and durable transparent conductive films for solar panel dust removal.