Photovoltaic Thermal Collectors Integrated with Phase Change Materials: A Comprehensive Analysis

Muthanna Mohammed Awad,Salam J Yaqoob,Mohamed Abouhawwash,Omer Khalil Ahmed,Naseer T Alwan,Anand Nayyar,Obed Majeed Ali,Adel Fahad Alrasheedi

doi:10.3390/electronics11030337

Abstract

The target of the current study was to review and analyze the research activities of previous studies on cooling techniques for thermal photovoltaic (PV) systems using phase-change materials. These materials have the ability to absorb and release certain amounts of potential heat energy by changing their state from phase to phase (solid–liquid) within a small temperature range. These materials have been used to regulate and lower the temperature, increase the efficiency, and extend the life of solar cells. A host of improvements have been made to phase-changing materials through the combined utilization of phase-change materials and fins in addition to nanoscale fluids to enhance electrical efficiency. When using PCMs, the thermal, electrical, and overall efficiency improved by 26.87%, 17.33%, and 40.59%, respectively. The addition of nanomaterials increased phase-change materials’ specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity, thus reducing the plate temperature and increasing the electrical efficiency. It was found that using of nanoparticles together with a microcapsule had better performance in terms of energy efficiency. Studies indicated that variable phase materials were not used because of their high cost and lack of stable operational design. Therefore, the effect of phase-change materials on PV/thermal (PVT) system performance needs further investigation and study.

Highlights

The results indicated that using PCM in the solar collector could greatly reduce the temperature fluctuations of the PV panel and improve PV efficiency
PCMs store the harmful heat generated by solar panels during the conversion process, which is not converted into electrical energy, in the form of latent heat
The use of a PCM regulates the temperature, improves the performance of the photovoltaics, and saves the energy and cost of the photovoltaic in the system. It increases the life of photovoltaic cells via the lower operating temperature and the increase in the energy density of buildings integrated with the photovoltaic panels

Summary

Introduction

Renewable energy is one of the most appealing options for decreasing global energy requests, especially in the heating and cooling sectors, where nonfossil sources account for less than 20% of total energy consumption [1]. Increasing fossil fuel usage leads to a rise in air pollution and the earth’s temperature, causing global warming, a major threat to a human lifetime [2]. Solar energy can be considered a viable source of renewable energy that is characterized by its availability in most countries of the world and can be exploited without the need for advanced technology. Solar energy systems are distinguished by their low operating costs and ease of maintenance. Solar energy systems are divided into solar collectors, to heat water or air, and solar cells, to generate electricity [3].

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Results

Conclusion