Electrodynamic Screen Research Articles

Theoretical Analysis, Simulation and Optimization of Electric Field on the Three-Phase Electrodynamic Screen

Theoretical Analysis, Simulation and Optimization of Electric Field on the Three-Phase Electrodynamic Screen

Self-powered electrodynamic dust removal for sustainable solar panels using triboelectric nanogenerators

Maintaining the efficiency and longevity of solar panels relies on effective dust management. While electrodynamic screen (EDS) technology is a promising solution, its reliance on high-voltage power sources can compromise overall solar panel efficiency. In this study, we introduce an innovative approach that harnesses wind-driven rotating triboelectric nanogenerators (RTENGs) to power EDS systems, enabling autonomous dust removal from eco-friendly solar panels. We conducted precise optimizations of the RTENG's structure, electrode design, and the dielectric material of the EDS plate to maximize system performance. Our results establish a direct relationship between RTENG power output and solar panel performance, achieving efficiencies exceeding 90% at wind speeds of 28 m/s. This research underscores the practical viability of triboelectric nanogenerators as a sustainable power source for dust management, offering profound implications for the field of solar energy harvesting.

Flexible Thin Film Functionalized by Initiative Dust Removal and Anti-Fogging for Optical Device Applications.

The deposition of dust and condensation of fog will block the scattering and transmission of light, thus affecting the performance of optical devices. In this work, flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foil functionalized by active dust removal and anti-fogging characteristics is realized which combines electrodynamic screen (EDS) and electro-heating devices. In lieu of traditional measurement methods of dust removal efficiency, the PSNR is employed to characterize the dust removal efficiency of the film for the first time. The results show that both dust removal and anti-fogging improve the image quality, in which the dust removal increases the PSNR from 28.1 dB to 34.2 dB and the anti-fogging function realizes a film temperature rise of 16.7 ∘C in 5 min, reaching a maximum of 41.3 ∘C. According to the high sensitivity of the PSNR, we propose a fully automatic CIS film-driven algorithm, and its feasibility has been demonstrated.

Modeling the performance of an Electrodynamic screen (EDS) with artificial intelligence techniques

Modeling the performance of an Electrodynamic screen (EDS) with artificial intelligence techniques

Surface engineering of solar glass covers for soiling related issues by applying electrodynamic screens (EDS)

Soiling of PV modules causes energy generation loss in utility-scale power plants installed worldwide and particularly severe in regions with water scarcity, like deserts and arid zones. This problem can be addressed by various surface engineering-based solutions. A potential solution to this problem is using an Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) on solar panels, which is a dry cleaning method requiring minimal energy from the solar panels. The work reported here explains the mechanisms involved in the dust particle movement for both 1-Ф and 3-Ф EDS through simulation and modeling first. Various operational parameters, like Dust Removal Efficiency (DRE), Threshold voltage (Vth), have been experimentally evaluated for 1-Ф EDS. The effect of Relative Humidity (RH) on EDS performance has been studied. Our studies reveal that EDS performance would decline on reaching RH value beyond 55%. A novel method using amorphous Hydrogenated Silicon (a-Si: H) based photosensor is reported for the first time for DRE evaluation. Finally, we suggest the circumvent 3-Ф EDS fabrication complexity, resulting in low yield. Again, the use of 1-Ф EDS by applying a higher pulsed voltage for a short duration at the end of the cleaning cycle could as well be attempted.

Experimental analysis of micronized plastic particle movement on electrodynamic screens

ABSTRACT The electrical curtain board (ECB) is constituted of parallel linear electrodes deposited on a dielectric layer plate and supplied by a poly-phase electrical voltage. This paper reports a study of the movement of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) µm-size particles on such an ECB. The experimental setup comprised three ECB plates of different inter-electrodes spacing, and a homemade electric supply. Obtained results show that it is possible to move the quasi-totality of the particles on the ECB if adequate values are given to the voltage, the frequency and the inter-electrodes spacing.

Transparent Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) Films - Industrial Production and Lamination onto PV Modules and CSP Mirrors for Self Cleaning Function

Electrodynamic screens (EDS) are transparent dielectric films, consisting of embedded, interdigitated parallel conducting electrodes that can be integrated onto the optical surface of a photovoltaic (PV) module or concentrated solar power (CSP) mirror for their self-cleaning function to mitigate the energy yield losses caused by soiling. The EDS film removes dust particles using electrostatic forces thus eliminating the need for water or robotic devices to clean the solar devices. In this paper we report the methods experimented to produce EDS film stacks integrated onto individual PV modules (33 cm × 28 cm) for solar field applications using an industrial vacuum lamination process for the purpose of outdoor testing. Steps taken to optimize the lamination process to provide high optical transparency, resistance against moisture ingress and to withstand dust abrasion are described. The experiments performed to arrive at the optimal curing temperature, curing time, and vacuum pressure maintenance for the lamination process are elaborated. Details on the construction, functionality and operation of the outdoor testing units are provided. Measurements of the optical transmission efficiency (TE) and output power restoration (OPR) of the EDS film stack laminated onto PV modules are presented along with a model for full-scale lamination with an aim for advancing the EDS film technology as a commercially available product.

Microwave Meissner screening properties of proximity-coupled topological-insulator / superconductor bilayers

The proximity coupled topological insulator / superconductor (TI/SC) bilayer system is a representative system to realize topological superconductivity. In order to better understand this unique state and design devices from the TI/SC bilayer, a comprehensive understanding of the microscopic properties of the bilayer is required. In this work, a microwave Meissner screening study, which exploits a high-precision microwave resonator technique, is conducted on the SmB6/YB6 thin film bilayers as an example TI/SC system. The study reveals spatially dependent electrodynamic screening response of the TI/SC system that is not accessible to other techniques, from which the corresponding microscopic properties of a TI/SC bilayer can be obtained. The TI thickness dependence of the effective penetration depth suggests the existence of a bulk insulating region in the TI layer. The spatially dependent electrodynamic screening model analysis provides an estimate for the characteristic lengths of the TI/SC bilayer: normal penetration depth, normal coherence length, and the thickness of the surface states. We also discuss implications of these characteristic lengths on the design of a vortex Majorana device such as the radius of the vortex core, the energy splitting due to intervortex tunneling, and the minimum thickness required for a device.

Enhancement of the electric field in electrodynamic screen using helix electrodes

The effect of electric fields on electrodynamic screen is very important for dust removal from solar cell screen. In this paper, we first analyzed and studied electrodynamic screen and examined the results in comparison with other reports in the literature. Also, simulation was done using the COMSOL Multiphysics software using the finite element analysis (FEA). The simulation results were compared with the results of analytical method (ANA), which are in good agreement with each other. Then, it is proposaled to using the structure of spring-shaped electrodes and the properties of Helix antennas, the electric field at the surface of electrodynamic screen was studied and amplified. In this system, the wired circles are located around the cylindrical electrodes. Found, when the voltage circulates inside these electrodes and wires in the frequency range of 5 to 100 Hz, it increases the electric field by about 50%. The amplification of the electric field leads to a more powerful electric force and a faster movement of dust particles, which speeds up the cleaning of electrodynamic screen.

Dust removal from solar concentrators using an electrodynamic screen

The electrodynamic screen (EDS), which transports particles by electrodynamic waves, is a promising technology to repel deposited dust from solar devices in places where water resources are scarce. As gravitational force may impede dust removal on concave or parabolic solar concentrators, this study aimed to determine the feasibility of the EDS to transport dust either upward or laterally, for application to concave solar devices. A discrete element method was used to computationally simulate the transport, collision, and adhesion of charged dust particles that were subject to traveling waves on an inclined EDS. High electric field strength (>2 kVp-p mm−1), short distance between electrodes, and a low adhesion circumstance resulted in the best cleaning efficiency with a wave that traveled up the incline. Over half of the particles moved up the incline successfully under this operational condition. To improve the cleaning efficiency, a new EDS configuration wherein the wave transported particles laterally along the surface (instead of up the incline against gravity) was proposed. With the new configuration, the performance clearly improved in all cases. Although some particles moved down the incline under most conditions, the application of EDS to clean dust off solar concentrators is achievable with optimal parameters.

Self-Cleaning: From Bio-Inspired Surface Modification to MEMS/Microfluidics System Integration.

This review focuses on self-cleaning surfaces, from passive bio-inspired surface modification including superhydrophobic, superomniphobic, and superhydrophilic surfaces, to active micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) and digital microfluidic systems. We describe models and designs for nature-inspired self-cleaning schemes as well as novel engineering approaches, and we discuss examples of how MEMS/microfluidic systems integrate with functional surfaces to dislodge dust or undesired liquid residues. Meanwhile, we also examine “waterless” surface cleaning systems including electrodynamic screens and gecko seta-inspired tapes. The paper summarizes the state of the art in self-cleaning surfaces, introduces available cleaning mechanisms, describes established fabrication processes and provides practical application examples.

Development of Hybrid Structures of Silver Nanowire Electrodes for the Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) Films to Mitigate Energy Yield Loss Incurred by Solar Collectors Due to Soiling

ABSTRACTThis study aims at establishing environmentally stable and viable silver nanowire (AgNW) electrodes of an Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) film, by the inclusion of one or more protective layers of zinc oxide (ZnO) produced in lab by combining tetrahydrofuran (THF) and diethylzinc (DEZ). The electrodes can be realized as 1) stacked structure where the AgNW electrode has a layer of ZnO on top for protection or 2) sandwiched structure where the AgNW electrode is covered by ZnO layers, protecting it from the top and bottom. Experiments are done to test the effect of accelerated exposure to ultraviolet light, high temperature and passage of high voltage on the AgNW samples and are compared with the results obtained from the AgNW samples that have the ZnO protective layer which have also been subjected to the aforementioned test conditions. A complete water immersion test is performed in order to ensure functionality and efficiency of the ZnO/AgNW samples that are to be patterned as electrodes of the EDS film. This will demonstrate viability of the structure in the case of rain.

Dust settles, we don’t: The electrodynamic screen—A self-cleaning technology for concentrated solar power mirrors and photovoltaic panels

ABSTRACT

Water and Cost Reduction from the Application of EDS to Facilitate Water Free Cleaning in Concentrated Solar Power

ABSTRACTSoiling in solar power generation will be a significant obstacle to its growth if a water free method cannot be found. Demand for water in arid regions will increase as more solar power generation is built, requiring more water to clean the optical surface, in turn increasing the price of water. This will lead to increased operating costs for solar power generation, and potentially disputes in locations where water is scarce. The electrodynamic screen (EDS) can reduce soiling and contribute to restoring the optical surface without the use of water. Periodic cleaning will still be required, but at reduced frequency, leading to a significant reduction in the consumption of water. In this model, it was found that a 250 MW concentrated solar power plant would have a 74% reduction in water given current laboratory production uncertainties. This indicates that EDS technology could decrease both the operating cost and the water use for solar generation plants.

Mitigation of Dust Impact on Solar Collectors by Water-Free Cleaning With Transparent Electrodynamic Films: Progress and Challenges

Energy-yield loss caused by soiling of photovoltaic modules and concentrated solar power (CSP) mirrors in utility-scale power plants installed in semiarid lands and deserts would result in unsustainable demands for fresh water needed for cleaning. This paper reviews the progress of the electrodynamic screen (EDS) film technology for frequent water-free cleaning with low-energy requirements. Results presented here, based on laboratory-scale EDS-film-laminated solar panel cleaning, show that the output power can be restored higher than 95% of the initial power under clean conditions. For solar mirrors, the specular reflection efficiency can be maintained over 90% ensuring high efficiency of the CSP plants. Operation of the EDS film for maintaining high optical efficiency of solar collectors requires less than 0.2 Wh/m ${}^2$ /cleaning cycle. Principles, optical modeling, construction, lamination of the EDS films on modules and mirrors, and experimental data showing optical efficiency restoration without water consumption are presented. Current challenges in developing electrodes that would meet optical and conduction properties, low-cost production, and meeting long-term outdoor durability of the EDS films are discussed.

An experimental study on the characterization of electric charge in electrostatic dust removal

Automatic dust removal using the electrostatic forces of electrodynamic screen (EDS) is an emerging method for mitigation of energy yield losses caused by dust accumulation on solar collectors. Both electric field distribution and dust particles' charge acquired during the removal process play pivotal roles in thorough evaluation of EDS performance. Previous studies have comprehensively analyzed the electric field distribution in EDS. In this paper we have conducted a number of experiments to examine how two EDS design parameters, electrode width and inter-electrode spacing, and two operational parameters, applied voltage and relative humidity, affect dust particles' charge. Sixteen EDS prototypes in two sets were developed and tested in a laboratory environment to study the acquired charge by dust particles via charge-to-mass ratio measurements. It has been shown that the charge-to-mass ratio is directly affected by the electric field intensity on an EDS surface. Furthermore, we have shown the detrimental impact of relative humidity on EDS performance. The results are advantageous in the evaluation of EDS design and its optimization to attain maximum dust removal efficiency.

Performance Analysis of Electrodynamic Screens Based on Residual Particle Size Distribution

Dust accumulation on the optical surfaces of solar collectors causes significant losses in their energy yield. Fine dust particles, compared with coarse ones, contribute significantly more in the performance loss, assuming identical surface mass concentration. This study examines the performance of different electrodynamic screen (EDS) prototypes, operated under different conditions, in removing fine dust particles in the laboratory environment. After going through several cycles of dust deposition and cleaning using EDS, the dust residue left on each EDS prototype is collected and analyzed using a Horiba particle size distribution (PSD) analyzer. The PSD analyses determine which EDS design has performed superior in removing a given size range and in which operational condition. The results are advantageous in the optimization procedure of EDS to attain maximum dust removal efficiency and minimum optical interference.

Many-body dispersion effects on the binding of TCNQ and F4-TCNQ with graphene

Predictive modeling and understanding of binding of organic molecule-decorated graphene is an essential prerequisite for tuning their electronic and magnetic properties. Many-body dispersion (MBD) interactions are known to contribute significantly to the binding of condensed matters, but the role of MBD energy in self-assembled organic monolayers on epitaxial graphene remains largely unexplored. Here, by using the state-of-the-art DFT + MBD method, we for the first time investigate model π-π adsorption systems that are composed of two typical acceptor molecules, TCNQ and F4-TCNQ, and graphene sheets. The computed binding energies from the DFT + MBD method are consistently smaller than those from the pairwise-based van der Waals (vdW) inclusive method, such as DFT + vdW, due to the accurate capture of both electrodynamic screening and many-body effects in the former case. Notably, many-body effects contribute more to the low-coverage adsorption systems than they do when the substrate is highly covered by the adsorbates. This somewhat counter-intuitive result is attributed to the fact that each molecule contributes less to the polarization of the hybrid interface at high coverage.

Electrostatic force distribution on an electrodynamic screen

The enormous potential of solar energy harvesting plants to provide clean energy is severely limited by dust accumulation on their optical surfaces. In lieu of the most commonly-practiced manual cleaning method of using high-pressure water jets, electrodynamic screen (EDS) technology offers an attractive solution for removing dust particles from optical surfaces using electrostatic forces. In this paper, the impacts of different EDS design parameters in the electric field distribution on an EDS have been studied. Furthermore, based on electric field expressions, closed-form solutions for multipolar dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces in the EDS application are provided. Detailed evaluation of the EDS performance necessitates investigation of different forces involved in the dust removal process. Different comparisons are made between repelling and attracting forces exerted on dust particles deposited on an EDS surface. These comparisons elucidate EDS performance in the removal of a given size range of dust particles. The significant detrimental impact of relative humidity upon the dust removal process is quantitatively addressed. It is shown how just a 10 percent increase in relative humidity can make the repelling force ineffective in the dust removal process.

Development of Transparent Electrodynamic Screens on Ultrathin Flexible Glass Film Substrates for Retrofitting Solar Panels and Mirrors for Self-Cleaning Function

ABSTRACTDevelopment of transparent electrodynamic screens (EDS) printed on ultrathin flexible glass film substrates for retrofitting on solar panels and solar mirrors to perform self cleaning function is reviewed. Large-scale solar plants are generally installed in semi-arid and desert areas where dust layers build up on solar collectors causes major energy-yield loss. Maintaining designed plant capacities requires more than 90% reflectivity for CSP mirrors and 90% transmission efficiency for PV modules; solar collectors must therefore be cleaned at a frequency depending on the rate of dust deposition. Scarcity of water in these regions requires a cleaning method that drastically reduces or eliminates water and the associated labor costs for high efficiency operation of large-scale solar plants. An EDS film consists of rows of interdigitated, transparent conducting parallel electrodes embedded within a flexible ultrathin glass film and an optically clear adhesive film used for retrofitting the film on the surface of solar collectors. When phased voltage pulses activate the electrodes, the dust particles are first electrostatically charged, then repelled and removed from the surface of the solar collectors by Coulomb force, restoring transmission efficiency greater than 90%. The electrodes of EDS are either made from silver nanowire or another conductive transparent material printed on a highly transparent, ultrathin (100-μm thick), flexible borosilicate glass film. Applications of different conducting transparent electrodes and methods of printing are reviewed for optimizing self-cleaning function of solar panels and mirrors.