Field Of Solar Energy Research Articles

PI-SiO2 aerogel as a versatile high transparent material for photothermal cooperative management

Effectively insulating against excessive heat generated by sunlight while also avoiding harmful ultraviolet (UV) and maintaining suitable levels of visible light transparency is vital for minimizing energy consumption and optimizing sunlight utilization. To address the challenge of photothermal collaborative management, the PI consisted of high fluorinated dianhydride and aliphatic diamine was used to effectively improve the performance of SiO2 aerogels. The resulting PI-SiO2 aerogels retain the characteristics of SiO2 aerogels, such as low density, high transparency between 82∼89 %, and excellent thermal insulation properties with an ultralow thermal conductivity range from 0.023 W/(m.K) to 0.028 W/(m.K). Meanwhile, the coarsened skeleton of aerogels can withstand the extreme temperature difference between −196 ℃ and 200 ℃ without brittle fracture and yellowing. In addition, PI-SiO2 aerogels exhibit the capability to absorb a significant proportion of UV light within the 200–400 nm, offering distinct advantages in transparent thermal insulation materials. The multifunctional PI-SiO2 aerogels can be used as candidate materials in the fields of architecture, automobile, electronics, solar energy and aerospace.

Examining the electronic, structural, optical, and photovoltaic capabilities of Sr3AsBr3 perovskite under tensile and compressive strains with DFT and SCAPS-1D

A significant amount of interest in the field of solar energy has recently been generated by the remarkable optical, structural, and electronic attributes of inorganic perovskite-based substances. A thorough investigation was conducted on how tensile along with compressive strains influence the electronic and optical properties of halide perovskite Sr3AsBr3, utilizing FP-DFT. The PBE functional is used to determine the direct bandgap of 1.512 eV for unstrained Sr3AsBr3 at the Γ position. The bandgap redshifts (1.216 eV at -4 % strain) under compressive strain and slightly increases (1.728 eV at +4 % strain) under tensile tension, causing the absorption coefficient to blueshift. The optical properties, including the functions of dielectric, electron energy loss function, and absorption coefficient, all indicate a considerable capacity for absorption in the area of the visible spectrum, and the band characteristics of this component agree with these qualities. We used Sr3AsBr3 absorbers and CdS electron transport layers (ETL) with different thicknesses, defect densities, and doping concentrations to study solar power capabilities using the SCAPS-1D simulator. The most effective arrangement (at -4 % strain) had a fill factor (FF) of 86.76 %, a short-circuit current density (JSC) of 37.5593 mAcm−2, an open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.8712 V, and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 28.39 %. Our findings support additional research into Sr3AsBr3, a promising perovskite for optoelectronic uses.

Lead-free semiconductor materials with high phase transition temperature: [1-Methylimidazole][SbBr4]

Semiconductor with structure phase change is a special multi-functional material, which plays an important role in the field of Solar Energy, information computing, sensor technology, artificial intelligence, etc. In this paper, the organic–inorganic lead-free semiconductor phase change material [1-Methylimidazole][SbBr4] (1) was successfully constructed. The IR, TGA, DSC, VT-PXRD, solid-state UV–vis spectroscopy and temperature dependence of dielectric constant were characterized and analysed. Single crystal X-ray diffraction shows that at 298 K, the space group is P21/c, the point group 2/m; an endothermic and exothermic peak appeared near 386 K and 367 K in the DSC heating–cooling cycles. Near the corresponding phase transition temperature point, compound 1 exhibits a significant reversible change in the dielectric platform. Interestingly, the band gap of compound 1 is about 2.53 eV. The existence of such interesting physical properties is closely related to the interaction between cations and anions in the molecule and the connection of internal hydrogen bonds. By constructing organic–inorganic hybrid semiconductor materials, we hope to obtain semiconductor materials with phase transition properties and actively explore and provide some ideas and support for the application of new high-tech materials.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Using STEAM Projects in Teaching Physics: Student Interest in the Field of Solar Energy

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Using STEAM Projects in Teaching Physics: Student Interest in the Field of Solar Energy

A robust multi-objective optimization algorithm for accurate parameter estimation for solar cell models

The accuracy of solar cell models is crucial for enhancing the performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, existing solar cell models lack precise parameters, and the manufacturer's datasheet does not provide the required information for reliable modeling. Consequently, accurate parameter estimation becomes necessary. This paper presents a simple multi-objective optimization algorithm (Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization and Rat Search Algorithm (PSORSA)) designed to estimate cell parameters based on this observation. Unlike other optimization algorithms addressing this issue, the proposed algorithm aims to overcome challenges related to local minima and premature convergence, which often lead to suboptimal results. The paper focuses on assessing the reliability of the proposed algorithm by comparing its performance with other well-known optimization algorithms. The proposed optimizing algorithm is tested on the CEC 2019 benchmark function. Experimental results (RMSE), including statistical analysis, validate the algorithm's effectiveness by comparing them with other algorithms. At the end, non-parametric test is performed to justify the outcomes, vouching for the better performance of the proposed algorithm. The findings demonstrate that the proposed algorithms are particularly well-suited for estimating solar PV models. With its simple structure and high accuracy, the proposed algorithm exhibits great potential for various applications in the field of solar energy. Moreover, its computational efficiency and ease of implementation further contribute to its practicality.

Graphical Interface in MATLAB for design and analysis of reflectors for lighting systems or solar collectors on parabolic surfaces

This project introduces the successful development of a MATLAB graphical interface for the design and analysis of reflectors and solar concentrators on parabolic surfaces. The integration of spline techniques for precise modeling of these surfaces has been implemented, along with the capability to generate STL files for 3D printing. The interface not only enables detailed and adaptable design of reflectors but also includes an advanced simulator for projecting incident rays and analyzing their reflection on the parabolic surface, focusing specifically on the focal point location. This has led to a significant increase in the efficiency of solar concentrators and lighting systems by enabling the precise placement of absorbers to maximize energy transfer. The obtained results confirm the initial hypothesis, demonstrating that the interface enhances the precision and efficiency in the design of these systems, thereby offering a valuable tool in both educational and professional realms in the fields of solar energy and lighting.

Scientific Mapping of Machine Learning Methods in Predicting Power Output of Solar Photovoltaic Power Systems

Objective: This study aimed to conduct a scientometric mapping of the scientific literature on prediction models in photovoltaic solar energy generation, with a special focus on grid-connected photovoltaic systems (GCPV), aiming to provide important insights for researchers, policymakers, and professionals interested in advancing the integration of photovoltaic solar energy into the current energy distribution system. Theoretical Framework: In this section, the main concepts and theories underpinning the research are presented, focusing on prediction models in photovoltaic solar energy generation, as well as grid-connected photovoltaic systems (GCPV). Method: The methodology adopted comprised a bibliometric approach, analyzing publications indexed in the Scopus and Web of Science databases over the last decade, using the Biblioshiny software from RStudio. Results and Discussion: The results revealed a significant growth in academic production, identifying key authors, leading research countries, and influential journals in the field. Central and emerging themes were also mapped, along with research gaps and opportunities in the field of photovoltaic solar energy. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research include insights into how the results may influence the integration of photovoltaic solar energy into the energy distribution system, impacting areas such as scientific research, policy development, and professional practice. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by offering a comprehensive mapping of research on prediction models in photovoltaic solar energy generation, highlighting gaps and opportunities to advance the field, as well as providing valuable insights for various stakeholders interested in this area.

Digital model of hydraulic drive for solar tracker rotary control

An important area in the field of solar energy is considered, focusing on the use of a hydraulic drive in high-power solar trackers. In the context of the relevance of environmental problems and the commitment to energy efficiency, the role of solar trackers in increasing the productivity of solar power plants is investigated. An analysis of current trends in the field of hydraulic drive is presented, highlighting the prospects for its application. The analysis of the directions of improvement of the drives of the solar tracker is carried out. The hydraulic drive of the tracker is considered as an object of regulation. Disturbing loads of various types acting in the process of changing the position of the tracker are determined. The main load acting on the tracker drive is positional, caused by the gas–dynamic effect of the wind flow impinging on the tracker plane or the ambiguity of the behavior of the snow and ice cover. It is determined that the inertial load, when turning a high-power tracker, has a significant effect on the friction forces in the attachment points of the hinge support mechanisms. Options for the implementation of new circuit solutions for the tracker hydraulic drive are considered. Using information from sensors of movement of the rods of hydraulic motors of the tracker position drive, the sun position sensor, the control electronic module positions the solar tracker platform by supplying control signals to the electric hydraulic distributors of the drive. The hydromechanical regulators of the pump adjust the characteristics of the system to a random change in external loads on the tracker. A mathematical model of the hydraulic drive of the basic circuit tracker has been developed. The digital model of the tracker drive is designed to optimize the operation of the hydraulic drive, taking into account various factors such as inertia, viscous damping, hydraulic losses, system nonlinearities, thermal losses, elasticity of elements and the impact of external factors. The results obtained emphasize the efficiency and accuracy of the control system, making the hydraulic drive an important element in the development of clean and efficient energy.

Structural and optical characteristics of Cr-doped TiO2 thin films synthesized by sol-gel method

In this paper, undoped and 7 %, and 20 % chromium doped titanium dioxide thin films were synthesized on silicon and quartz substrates by utilizing the sol-gel spin coating process. The films were then annealed at 450 °C. The synthesis process and the effects of doping on the structural, optical, and vibrational properties were studied. XRD analysis showed that the undoped thin film had an anatase phase with a crystalline size of about 15.4 nm. However, as the concentration of chromium increased, the crystalline size decreased, and we obtained a mixed phase of rutile and anatase for doped films. The FTIR spectra revealed that undoped films had Ti–O bonding at 435 cm−1 and bond with stretching at 619 cm−1 wavenumbers, which decreased to 379 cm−1 and 377 cm−1 wavenumbers for 7 % and 20 % Cr doping, respectively. The optical measurements showed that the films were homogeneous and had high transmission, reaching 95 % in the visible range for the undoped thin film and 80 % for higher doping levels of chromium. These films have a remarkable level of transparency, and because of that they are highly regarded in the field of thin-film solar cells. Their optical properties make them an excellent choice for use as optical windows in these types of solar cells. As the amount of chromium in the film increases, the optical bandgap decreases from 3.23 eV to 2.26 eV. This suggests that chromium has a significant impact on the optical properties of these films, which might be helpful to researchers and professionals working in the fields of solar energy, optoelectronic devices, photocatalytic systems, gas sensors, and solar cell passivation.

Solar Energy in Indonesia: The Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals for Net Zero Emissions

Renewable energy transition from fossil to renewable energy is the focus of countries worldwide. Indonesia, as the largest country in ASEAN and has quite good economic growth, is also focusing on the issue of energy tourism. President Jokowi is trying to approach several countries with the same renewable energy commitment to realize Net Zero Emission (NZE). However, this research focuses more on solar energy related to the availability of sunlight in tropical climates such as Indonesia. Based on the concept used in this research, namely SDG pin 7, partnership in the field of solar energy continues to be carried out. The solar energy transition in Indonesia has yet to be fully realized. However, by 2026, it is hoped that it can be implemented despite several obstacles the government and stakeholders face. The method uses qualitative methods because the data is obtained from published scientific research on renewable energy and interviews with stakeholders. This research aims to continue to realize the transition from fossil energy to renewable energy to reach the NZE.

Immersive Learning in Photovoltaic Energy Education: A Comprehensive Review of Virtual Reality Applications

This paper presents a comprehensive and systematic review of virtual reality (VR) as an innovative educational tool specifically for solar photovoltaic energy systems. VR technology, with its immersive and interactive capabilities, offers a unique platform for in-depth learning and practical training in the field of solar energy. The use of VR in this context not only enhances the understanding of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems but also provides a hands-on experience that is crucial for developing the necessary skills in this rapidly evolving field. Among the 6814 articles initially identified, this systematic review specifically examined 15 articles that focused on the application of VR in PV education. These selected articles demonstrate VR’s ability to accurately simulate real-world environments and scenarios related to solar energy, providing an in-depth exploration of its practical applications in this field. By offering a realistic and detailed exploration of PV systems, VR enables learners to gain a deeper understanding of harnessing, managing and using such a vast energy resource. The paper further discusses the implications of employing VR in educational settings, highlighting its potential to change the way solar energy professionals are trained, thereby contributing significantly to the acceleration of photovoltaic technology adoption and its integration into sustainable energy solutions.

Solar energy innovations in the USA: A comparative global review

This comparative global review delves into solar energy innovations in the United States, providing insights into the nation's advancements and positioning within the international landscape. The United States has emerged as a key player in the field of solar energy, characterized by rapid technological innovations, policy initiatives, and substantial investments. By comparing these developments with global trends, the study aims to shed light on the unique characteristics and impacts of solar energy innovations in the USA. The review begins by examining the historical evolution of solar energy technologies in the United States, highlighting key milestones and breakthroughs. Subsequently, it explores the policy frameworks and regulatory measures that have shaped the growth of the solar energy sector, drawing comparisons with strategies adopted by other leading nations. The study delves into financial incentives, government support, and the role of private-sector initiatives in fostering a conducive environment for solar innovation. A critical aspect of the review is the comparative analysis of solar energy adoption rates, capacity additions, and grid integration strategies across various countries. By benchmarking the USA's solar energy landscape against global benchmarks, the study aims to identify best practices, challenges, and opportunities for further advancements. The review also considers the socio-economic and environmental impacts of solar energy innovations in the USA, assessing job creation, economic growth, and carbon emissions reductions. Comparative case studies with other nations provide a comprehensive understanding of the broader implications of solar energy adoption on a global scale. As solar energy continues to gain prominence as a sustainable and scalable solution, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse by providing a nuanced perspective on the unique trajectory of solar innovations in the USA. The findings aim to inform policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders, offering valuable insights for the continued growth and optimization of solar energy technologies in both domestic and global contexts.

Investigating the Impact of Water Cooling on the Performance of PV Modules in Palestine

The way that energy is produced across the world has altered recently. The use of renewable energy has increased because it does not harm the environment in the same way that other energy sources, such as fossil fuels, nuclear energy, etc., do because of the pollution they produce. In addition, the cost of producing renewable energy is lower than that of fossil fuels. Since the technologies used to convert solar radiation into a reliable power source have advanced significantly over the past few years and have demonstrated their high efficiency in energy production, demand for energy has recently increased significantly. Solar energy is one of the types of renewable energy. The most popular technique is photovoltaic (PV) modules since it generates energy directly. This study's main goal is to increase photovoltaic (PV) modules' operating capacity while also improving their overall efficiency. PV modules play a crucial part in the field of harvesting solar energy, serving as one of the most well-known ways to make use of the sun's unbounded potential as a leading source of renewable energy. The results of a thorough experimental investigation that examined the effects of PV module cooling and identified the most effective cooling techniques to optimize PV module performance within the particular context of Nablus City, located in Palestine, are revealed in this study. The horizontally divided box was discovered to be the most effective cooling technique, resulting in a 30% reduction in temperature and a 0.5% boost in efficiency.

Photovoltaic hotspots: A mitigation technique and its thermal cycle

In the rapidly evolving field of solar energy, Photovoltaic (PV) manufacturers are constantly challenged by the degradation of PV modules due to localized overheating, commonly known as hotspots. This issue not only reduce the efficiency of solar panels but, in severe cases, can lead to irreversible damage, malfunctioning, and even fire hazards. Addressing this critical challenge, our research introduces an innovative electronic device designed to effectively mitigate PV hotspots. This pioneering solution consists of a novel combination of a current comparator and a current mirror circuit. These components are uniquely integrated with an automatic switching mechanism, notably eliminating the need for traditional bypass diodes. We rigorously tested and validated this device on PV modules exhibiting both adjacent and non-adjacent hotspots. Our findings are groundbreaking: the hotspot temperatures were significantly reduced from a dangerous 55 °C to a safer 35 °C. Moreover, this intervention remarkably enhanced the output power of the modules by up to 5.3%. This research not only contributes a practical solution to a longstanding problem in solar panel efficiency but also opens new pathways for enhancing the safety and longevity of solar PV systems.

The role and prospects of nanotechnology in green energy technologies

In the current article, research has been conducted on the application directions of nanotechnology in various sectors of green energy technologies, and analyses have been made based on them. These analyses include studies of the application of nanotechnology in the fields of solar, wind, hydrogen, and geothermal energy. The shortcomings that appear in the process of transition to the mentioned green energy sectors were discussed. Also, the role of nanotechnology in increasing the efficiency of application in these fields was emphasized. On the basis of these analyses, common coordination between energy sectors was made and the relevance of using nanomaterials in eliminating the negative aspects affecting the decrease in efficiency in each of them was noted. Finally, the “small concentration and excitation” theory, which opened a new path in the oil and gas industry, and the scientific rationale for increasing the efficiency of the wells developed with this theory were touched upon.

Research Collaboration of ITENAS Bandung – Indonesia and MATE Godollo – Hungary on the Photovoltaic Thematic Field: Achievements and Future Plan

Since the agreement was signed officially in 2013, Institut Teknologi Nasional Bandung (ITENAS Bandung) – Indonesia and Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE Godollo) – Hungary have implemented a lot of scholarly activities, and one of them is research collaboration in the field of solar energy, especially in the thematic field of photovoltaic (PV). A set of experimental facilities has been developed and constructed to support related research. Basic facilities to understand the principle of electricity generated by PV, i.e., having the solar power plant (SPP) laboratory scale have been fulfilled by both universities. MATE Godollo has a 10 kWp SPP installation and uses polycrystalline and amorphous silicon PV modules, meanwhile, ITENAS Bandung has 1 kWp SPP and uses monocrystalline silicon PV modules. In this paper, a set of activities related to PV research collaboration between ITENAS Bandung and MATE Godollo will be elaborated, including the output and the outcome of the activities, and plan activities involving other university partners, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra – Slovakia and Czech University of Life Science Prague, Czech Republic.

АНАЛИЗ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ СОЛНЕЧНЫХ КОЛЛЕКТОРОВ В СИСТЕМАХ ТЕПЛОСНАБЖЕНИЯ

The article analyzes the efficiency of solar collectors in heat supply systems. The main types of solar collectors, methods for assessing their efficiency, comparative analysis with traditional heat sources, as well as economic advantages are considered. Particular attention is paid to technical and operational challenges, development prospects and innovations in the field of solar energy. The analysis shows that solar collectors are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for heat supply, despite the existing technical difficulties and the need for further research and development.

Photothermal Phase Change Energy Storage Materials: A Groundbreaking New Energy Solution.

To meet the demands of the global energy transition, photothermal phase change energy storage materials have emerged as an innovative solution. These materials, utilizing various photothermal conversion carriers, can passively store energy and respond to changes in light exposure, thereby enhancing the efficiency of energy systems. Photothermal phase change energy storage materials show immense potential in the fields of solar energy and thermal management, particularly in addressing the intermittency issues of solar power. Their multifunctionality and efficiency offer broad application prospects in new energy technologies, construction, aviation, personal thermal management, and electronics.

Interlayer angle dependence of photoelectric properties of Sb/SnC van der Waals heterojunction and its application*

The discovery of novel properties in twisted bilayer graphene has opened up new avenues of research in physics and materials science, making the twistronics a new research hotspot. In this paper, based on two-dimensional tin-based materials and antimonene monolayers, six types of Sb/SnC two-dimensional van der Waals heterostructures (vdWH) with different interlayer twist angles are constructed, and their optoelectronic properties and applications are studied by first-principles calculations. All modeling and calculations are performed using the density functional theory (DFT) software Quantum-ATK. The results show that the Sb/SnC vdWHs with six different interlayer twist angles have various band gaps, and when the interlayer twist angles are 10.89°, 19.11°, 23.41°, and 30°, the Sb/SnC vdWH exhibit a type-I band edge alignment, while at 8.95° and 13.59°, they present a type-II band structure. The results of the orbital-projected band structures of the Sb/SnC vdWHs reveal that the variation in interlayer twist angles changes the atomic stacking in the heterostructures, thereby modifying orbital coupling and further tuning the electronic structure of the heterostructures. Additionally, the calculated absorption spectra indicate that comparing individual Sb and SnC monolayers with Sb/SnC vdWHs, the latter’s absorption coefficient r is significantly enhanced in the visible light region, and the optical absorption characteristics of the heterostructures with different interlayer twist angles vary markedly. In terms of applications, as materials for solar cells, the Sb/SnC vdWHs with interlayer twist angles of 8.95° and 13.59° exhibit photovoltaic conversion efficiencies of 17.48% and 18.59%, respectively; as photocatalysts for the complete water splitting, the Sb/SnC vdWH with an interlayer twist angle of 8.95° can catalytically decompose water across a pH range of 0–2, while a twist angle of 13.59° confines its catalytic activity to a pH value between 0 and 1. Therefore, Sb/SnC van der Waals heterostructures have special rotation angles and have multifunctional application prospects in the fields of solar energy and photocatalysis. More importantly, our research demonstrates that in addition to traditional methods such as strain, doping, and defects, adjusting the interlayer twist angle provides a new degree of freedom for manipulating the optoelectronic properties of materials.

Stability of organic solar cells: toward commercial applications.

Organic solar cells (OSCs) have attracted a great deal of attention in the field of clean solar energy due to their advantages of transparency, flexibility, low cost and light weight. Introducing them to the market enables seamless integration into buildings and windows, while also supporting wearable, portable electronics and internet-of-things (IoT) devices. With the development of photovoltaic materials and the optimization of fabrication technology, the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of OSCs have rapidly improved and now exceed 20%. However, there is a significant lack of focus on material stability and device lifetime, causing a severe hindrance to commercial applications. In this review, we carefully review important strategies employed to improve the stability of OSCs over the past three years from the perspectives of material design and device engineering. Furthermore, we analyze and discuss the current important progress in terms of air, light, thermal and mechanical stability. Finally, we propose the future research directions to overcome the challenges in achieving highly stable OSCs. We expect that this review will contribute to solving the stability problem of OSCs, eventually paving the way for commercial applications in the near future.