Comprehensive Review of Dust Properties and Their Influence on Photovoltaic Systems: Electrical, Optical, Thermal Models and Experimentation Techniques

Abstract

As conventional energy sources decrease and worldwide power demand grows, the appeal of photovoltaic (PV) systems as sustainable and ecofriendly energy sources has grown. PV system installation is influenced by geographical location, orientation, and inclination angle. Despite its success, weather conditions such as dust substantially influences PV module performance. This study provides a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the impact of dust characteristics on PV systems from three distinct perspectives. Firstly, the study looks at the dust properties in different categories: optical, thermal, physical, and chemical, highlighting their significant impact on the performance of PV systems. Secondly, the research reviews various approaches and equipment used to evaluate dust’s impact on PV, emphasizing the need for reliable instruments to measure its effects accurately. Finally, the study looks at modeling and predicting the influence of dust on PV systems, considering the parameters that affect electrical, optical, and thermal behavior. The review draws attention to the need for further research into dust’s properties, including thermal conductivity and emissivity. This analysis highlights the need for further research to develop a scientific correlation to predict the thermal behavior of PV in dusty environments. This paper identifies areas for further research to develop more efficient and effective methods for analyzing this influence and improving PV efficiency and lifespan.