Solar Panels Research Articles

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles: a comprehensive update on the multifaceted application, stability, biocompatibility, risk, and opportunity.

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have emerged as promising area of research due to their unique properties and potential multifaceted applications. The biosynthesis of SeNPs through biological methods, such as using microorganism, plant extracts, etc., offers a safe, eco-friendly, and biocompatible approach, compared to traditional chemical synthesis. Recent several studies demonstrated that multifaceted application of SeNPs includes a broad area such as antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and excellent wound healing activity. On the other hand, SeNPs have also shown promising application in sensing of inorganic toxic metals, electrochemistry, agro-industries, aqua-cultures, and in fabrication of solar panels. Additionally, SeNPs capability to enhance the efficacy of traditional antibiotics and act as effective agents against multidrug-resistant pathogens has shown their potential in addressing critical health challenges. Although, the SeNPs exhibit wide applicability, the potential toxicity of Se, particularly in its various oxidative states, necessitates careful assessment of the environmental and health impacts associated with their use. Therefore, understanding the balance between their beneficial properties and potential risks is crucial for its safe applications. This review focuses exclusively on SeNPs synthesized via eco-friendly process, excluding research utilizing other synthesis processes. Moreover, this review aims to offer an overview of the diverse applications, potential risks, stability requirement, and cytocompatibility requirement, and multifaceted opportunities associated with SeNPs. Ultimately, the review bridges a gap in knowledge by providing an updated details of multifaceted applications of SeNPs.

Monitoring investigation on impact of pile-based PV modules on several typical environmental elements in coastal mudflat intertidal zone.

With the construction of large photovoltaic modules in the intertidal zone, their impact on the environment has attracted people's attention. The paper took the first large-scale power generation project of "fishery-PV complementary" in the coastal mudflat intertidal zone of China as the research object and studied several typical environmental factors through on-site monitoring. The study results indicate that the average and maximum wind speeds in non-PV areas are more than twice that of PV areas. The still wind frequency in non-PV areas is the least, and the wind direction is significantly different from that in PV areas. The presence of PV modules significantly reduces the air circulation in the PV area. This resulted in higher average atmospheric temperature and mudflat temperature at the monitoring point located in the inner side of the PV area, and the temperature values fluctuated slightly. The solar radiation detected in the PV area is significantly lower than that in the non-PV area. The dissolved oxygen content gradually increases from the nearshore mudflat to the seaward. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of offshore mudflat resources and the environmental protection of the intertidal zone.

Determination of the Installation Efficiency of Vertical Stationary Photovoltaic Modules with a Double-Sided “East–West”-Oriented Solar Panel

Determination of the Installation Efficiency of Vertical Stationary Photovoltaic Modules with a Double-Sided “East–West”-Oriented Solar Panel

All-perovskite multijunction solar modules that circumvent drawbacks of wide-bandgap top cells

All-perovskite multijunction solar modules that circumvent drawbacks of wide-bandgap top cells

A modified energy management strategy for PV/diesel hybrid system to reduce diesel consumption based on artificial protozoa optimizer

The photovoltaic (PV)/diesel hybrid system (PV/D-HS) combines solar PV panels with a diesel generator (DG) to meet energy demands, especially in industrial operations. This study introduces an improved energy management strategy designed to optimize the performance of PV/D-HS by reducing diesel consumption, increasing solar energy utilization, and minimizing environmental impact. The strategy dynamically manages power distribution between the PV panels and the DG, adapting to changing solar conditions and energy demands. Doing so reduces the system’s reliance on diesel, improves operational efficiency, and supports the integration of cleaner energy sources. Simulation results show significant improvements over traditional approaches: carbon emissions decreased from 62 kg/day with a standalone diesel generator to 38 kg/day, representing a 38% reduction. The solar energy fraction (SEF) increases from 12 to 35%, a 23% improvement in solar energy utilization. These results demonstrate the potential of the proposed strategy to enhance sustainability by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and advancing global efforts to combat climate change. In addition to environmental benefits, the approach reduces operational costs and improves the system’s reliability, making it a practical solution for industrial energy needs.

Evaluating the Environmental and Energy Implications of Solar Panel Recycling in India: A Sustainability Assessment

Solar panel recycling is crucial for resource conservation, economic opportunities, and environmental impact reduction. Among different recycling methods, this study finds mechanical recycling to be most suitable for India, efficiently recovering valuable materials like silicon, silver, and cadmium/tellurium. Various recycling methods used globally were reviewed, however we specifically explore India’s context , where by 2030, solar panel waste is projected to reach 340,000 tons, highlighting the urgent need for effective recycling strategies. Our study shows that mechanical recycling can recover 85% of silicon, 70% of silver, and 60% of cadmium/tellurium, with estimated costs of ₹22/kg for silicon, ₹90,000/kg for silver, and ₹150,000/kg for cadmium/tellurium. Embracing these methods could reduce imports, benefitting both the economy and the environment.

Automated Solar Charging Station: An Instructional Mock-Up

Abstract: The Automated Solar Powered Charging System Device can be charged and located outside of the building and it is environmentally friendly setup. This research developed and designed an automated solar charging station in teaching Elex Tech 111 – Electronic Devices, Instrument and Circuits and the acceptability was evaluated through an instructional mock-up. Quasi-experiment method particularly survey research was employed involving 25 students, 5 instructors of CTU Tuburan Campus, and 10 experts in the said municipality for evaluation. Data were gathered and treated using weighted mean and t-test. From the findings, a conclusion is drawn despite the limitations of the study that included sample size and generalizability. Firstly, the requirements in the construction of the Automated Solar Charging Station included the preparation of the different parts, namely, the right solar panel, charge controller, photovoltaic battery, inverter, electrical load, and solar panel casing safety. These components were assembled following the different processes involved in making electronic products. Secondly, the Effectiveness of the Design and Installation of An Automated Solar Charging Station as an Instructional Mock-up for the respondents was “Moderately Effective” as perceived by the respondent groups. It was a helpful innovation, especially during this time of high electricity rates among the consumers of charging stations. Lastly, the output is very economical and practical. Therefore, it is concluded that it meets the standards and is precise functional in performing each functions to be used in instructions and is recommended to be adopted and produced for the utilization of the campus-wide.

Change in reflectance of silicon wafer with different micro-patterned surface fabricated using fiber laser

Laser-patterned surfaces functioned as antireflecting surfaces, which minimized reflection loss for a crystallized silicon wafer. Four different microstructures, namely, micro-channel, micro-hole, grid, and hybrid patterns were fabricated using the fiber laser. The patterned wafers were characterized for the wavelength range of 300–1,100 nm. The hybrid structure exhibited the lowest average reflectance of 0.33, followed by the micro hole (0.36) and the micro-channel (0.4) for the 300–1,100-nm wavelength using a Jasco V-770 spectrophotometer (Japan Spectroscopic Company (JASCO), Japan). Patterned surfaces can trap a large amount of light in solar panels, which is beneficial for photovoltaic and optical applications by cutting down the reflection losses. Surface morphology analysis was performed using a field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM). SEM images showed an amplified view of structure where the irregularity of surfaces (micro cracks, ripples, pits, etc.) can be seen.

Mitigating the Impact of Partial Shading Conditions on Photovoltaic Arrays Through Modified Bridge-Linked Configuration

Global reliance on depleting energy resources is driving the urgent need for alternative solutions to address escalating energy demands. Solar energy, a prominent renewable resource, leverages various configurations and techniques to maximize power output, even under challenging environmental conditions. In photovoltaic (PV) arrays, partial shading conditions (PSCs) significantly hinder efficiency by reducing power extraction across solar panels. Traditionally, configurations such as series, parallel, series-to-parallel, and bridge-linked (BL) are employed to optimize power output; however, each has limitations under PSCs. Here, we introduce a modified bridge-linked (Modified BL) configuration designed to mitigate the adverse effects of partial shading on PV arrays. This approach allows for interconnected solar modules that reduce shading impact across an entire array, thus preserving efficiency by isolating shaded sections and minimizing power loss. The Modified BL configuration not only supports maximum power point tracking (MPPT) but also enhances resilience against shading, ensuring stable power output. Our simulation results underscore the critical influence of irradiance levels on PV electricity generation, suggesting that incorporating irradiance variability as a design parameter is essential in selecting optimal PV interconnection schemes under PSCs. This study contributes to advancing solar array design by providing a robust method to maintain power output in partial shading conditions, ultimately supporting broader efforts in renewable energy optimization.

Open challenges and opportunities in photovoltaic recycling

Open challenges and opportunities in photovoltaic recycling

Revealing the Environmental Footprint of Crepe Rubber Production: A Comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment of a Crepe Rubber Factory in Sri Lanka

Natural rubber, a renewable material with unique properties, is crucial for various products on the modern market. Crepe rubber, a versatile form of natural rubber, is widely used in numerous applications, including footwear soles, medical devices, automotive parts, adhesives, sports equipment, industrial components, musical instruments, and recreational products. Sri Lanka holds a prominent position as a leading producer of premium-quality crepe rubber but faces environmental challenges in its production process. Since previous life cycle assessments (LCAs) in the rubber industry are inadequate to capture the overall environmental impact, the present study attempted to address the gaps by conducting a detailed LCA of a Sri Lankan crepe rubber factory, incorporating a novel index termed the trade-off valuation index (TOVI). The research revealed that fertilizer, water, and electricity use contribute most significantly to crepe rubber production’s environmental impact. To mitigate these impacts, four key improvement options were identified and evaluated through scenario analysis: (1) enhancing fertilizer efficiency, (2) repairing leaky joints and valves, (3) implementing a water reuse system, and (4) installing solar panels. The integration of the TOVI allowed for the prioritization of these options, providing actionable insights for industry stakeholders. This study paves the way for targeted interventions to enhance the sustainability of the natural rubber industry by balancing economic viability with environmental stewardship.

Integrating Renewable Fuels and Sustainable Practices in Equestrian Centers: A Model for Carbon Footprint Reduction and Environmental Impact Mitigation

This research investigates the feasibility of utilizing anaerobic digestion to produce biogas from organic waste generated at an equestrian center, emphasizing energy savings and environmental sustainability. The biogas system produces an estimated 85,495 kWh annually, surpassing the center’s electricity consumption of 18,644 kWh. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 2753 kg of CO2. Photovoltaic systems, which meet 70.77% of the energy demand, further contribute to a reduction of 1178 kg of CO2. Substituting fossil fuels with biofuels and planting 1700 trees achieved reductions of 26,263 kg of CO2 and 51,033 kg of CO2, respectively, resulting in a 49% overall carbon footprint reduction. This study evaluates the economic viability of biogas systems in the equestrian sector and optimal feedstock characteristics for efficient production. Additionally, complementary strategies, including photovoltaic solar panels and water management systems, are analyzed for their roles in promoting sustainable resource management. These integrated solutions support a transition to a circular economy while reducing environmental impacts and fostering energy independence in the equestrian industry.

Evaluation of Cells Cracks Impact on PV Module’s Performance

This work aims to perform an assessment of cell cracks impact on PV module’s performances. Cracks can occur during transportation, severe weather conditions such as hailstorms [1], poor installation practices and manufacturing [2]. Even with multiwire interconnection technologies, the impact of such defects can affect PV module’s performances as well as the energy yield and lifetime of a photovoltaic installation [3]. Moreover, cracks will leave the silicon edge unpassivated with a risk of being more sensitive to external stresses, especially on highly efficient technologies like TOPCon. The main objective of this work is studying the cracks impact on new module’s technology performance to quantify its impact on the production yield and forecast power plant performance. A laboratory testing sequence was performed on two different Glass/backsheet PV technologies: PERC and TOPCon. First, a cracking procedure was conducted to generate several cracks patterns on two batches of PV modules similar to the patterns observed on powerplants sites. An electrical characterization was then performed to carry out a first evaluation of power losses after the cracks. Moreover, several accelerated aging sequences were conducted on the cracked and reference modules to quantify the average losses after each accelerated aging test.

Design Battery Charger With CC-CV Method for Series Connected Lithium-Ion Batteries Using Fuzzy Logic Controller

Considering the many human needs, the existence of solar energy is considered very appropriate to help meet the energy needs consumed by humans. All the energy produced by solar panels can be stored using batteries which can then be converted into electrical energy. The battery will work when the energy stored in the battery is fulfilled, but if the use of the battery is carried out continuously it causes the energy in the battery to run out, so that the battery energy must be recharged immediately so that it can still be used again. charging which is used to recharge battery energy at this time unfortunately it still takes quite a long time to be recharged. Through the description of the problem, so that in study this is a tool fast charging use buck converter by using the method (Constant Current) CC-CV (Constant Voltage) on a Lithium-Ion battery. Buck converter This is necessary because the source used in this study is a solar panel which produces a very high voltage, so the voltage needs to be lowered by using buck converter. Using a 11.1V / 2.2 Ah LithiumIon battery. To keep the current and voltage constant, the charging process is carried out charging this current and voltage the output will be stabilized by Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC). From the simulation results that have been carried out, it appears that the FLC has been able to stabilize the charging current of 2.2Ah and 11.1V.

Analysis of the Degradation Products of the Organic Materials Present in the c-Si PV Modules, Emitted during a Pyrolysis Treatment and Recycling Strategy for Circular and Sustainable Development

Analysis of the Degradation Products of the Organic Materials Present in the c-Si PV Modules, Emitted during a Pyrolysis Treatment and Recycling Strategy for Circular and Sustainable Development

Recovery of Silicon Kerf Through Oxidative Cleaning and Drying Process

High quantity of slurries, kerf, are generated during ingot wafering and represent up to 40% of the silicon in weight. The highly pure silicon contained in kerf is contaminated with organics, metal impurities, water and an oxide layer. The recovery of the silicon could be an efficient way to reduce costs in the production of solar panels through material and energy savings. At high temperatures, organic contamination causes the formation of silicon carbide species that are difficult to segregate during kerf remelting into a pure silicon ingot. Also, during the fusion of silicon, temperatures up to 1500°C are reached and the mixture of silicon and water forms oxides and gases that reduce production yields and affect melting conditions. For these reason, purification and drying steps are required to ensure proper silicon raw material for remelting into ingots. So far, approaches using strong acidic or organic solvent are used to reduce contamination by organic compounds. In this study, more environmentally friendly processes were applied on authentic kerf waste to purify and dry silicon, to make it suitable as raw material for silicon ingot preparation. The amount of water and organic compounds were monitored along the process steps. Using aqueous oxidative processes in combination with filtration, kerf was cleaned and a total carbon reduction of at least 30% was observed. The control of humidity enables the convenient conditioning of purified kerf and effective drying reduced the moisture content to less than 5% wt.

Biomimetic Approaches for Detecting Lead in Water Contaminated by Perovskite Solar Cells.

Perovskite-based solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as highly promising in photovoltaics. New techniques are being developed for enhancing the device's lifetime and performance. However, damaged or end-of-life lead-perovskite solar modules pose significant health and environmental risks due to the release of Pb2+ ions into the environment. This work developed an electrochemical detection of lead ions leached from degraded PSCs to address this issue. The biomimicking architecture of the sensing moiety was designed to replicate the interaction between lead ions and amino acids in various proteins, enabling more specific detection. Here, aminopropyl trimethoxysilane-functionalized metal-organic framework/ZIF-67 (ZIF-N) was used to detect lead, specifically in water leaked from lead-based PSCs. The ZIF-67-based sensing element, combined with a carbon paste electrode, exhibited a selective interaction with lead ions, allowing for the detection of lead in water as low as 60 ppb. This detection strategy relies on measuring changes in electronic properties using an electrochemical approach. Real-time lead detection in perovskite-contaminated water was successfully demonstrated using the differential pulse voltammetry technique, with ZIF-N as the sensing element.

Mathematical modeling of the thermal regime in solar photovoltaic thermal panel

Design of a combined solar photovoltaic thermal panel (PV/T) for the simultaneous generation of electrical and thermal energy was proposed in this study. The basis of the new design is a traditional solar panel with poly-Si solar cells. A flat channel with a heat transfer fluid is added to the front size of such a panel. This channel is bounded by cover glass. A non-stationary mathematical model was developed for determination of temperature regime in the PV/T panel. This model consists to the system of nonlinear ordinary differential equa-tions, which describes mutual influence of external and internal heat flows and temperatures. A Math-software was created based on the developed mathematical model. The numerical studies were conducted in in real-time mode for selected geographical location of the PV/T panel. Heat flux density from the Sun, wind speed and ambient temperature were determined based on data from open worldwide climate databases. As result of computer modeling, the typical temperature distributions in each layer of the PV/T panel during daylight hours were founded. It was determined that the heat transfer fluid moving in a transparent channel from the front side of the solar panel does not cool the solar cell. This heat transfer fluid ensures only their thermal stability at the corresponding value of the specific mass flow rate. With an increase of the specific mass flow rate of the heat transfer fluid, the growth of solar cells tem-perature is observed under unchanged environmental conditions. An the same time, the pro-posed design of the PV/T panel ensures a significant increase of the heat transfer fluid tem-perature. This makes it possible to use it in low-potential heat generation systems. This leads to an increase in the economic efficiency of solar panels, economy of occupied areas, optimi-zation of system of production, consumption and storge of thermal and electrical energy.

Heavy Chalcogen Properties of Sulfur and Selenium Enhance Nucleic Acid-Based Therapeutics

The Group 16 elements of the periodic table have a characteristic valence shell configuration instrumental to their chemical properties and reactivities. The electrostatic potentials of these so-called chalcogens have been exploited in the design of materials that require the efficient passage of electrons including supermagnets, photocatalytic dyes, and solar panels. Likewise, the incorporation of the heavy chalcogen selenium into organic frameworks has been shown to increase the reactivities of double bonds and heterocyclic rings, while its interactions with aromatic side chains in the hydrophobic core of proteins such as selenomethionine impart a stabilizing effect. Typically present in the active site, the hypervalence of selenocysteine enables it to further stabilize the folded protein and mediate electron transfer. Selenium’s native occurrence in bacterial tRNA maintains base pair fidelity, most notably during oxidative stress, through its electronic and steric effects. Such native modifications at the position 2 and 5 of uridine render these sites relevant in the design of RNA-based therapeutics. Innocuous selenium substitution for oxygen in the former and the standard methods of selenium-derivatized oligonucleotide synthesis and detection have led to the establishment of a novel class of therapeutics. In this review, we summarize some progress in this area.

Justification of the application of a distributed network of photoelectric converters to power a linear motor of magnetolevitation transport

Modern high-speed transport is the basis of sustainable economic and social development of the state, society in compliance with environmental requirements. The concept of power supply of a linear motor of magneto-levitation transport from a distributed network of photovoltaic converters is substantiated. The basic power element of a track power plant is proposed in the form of a completed unit consisting of a solar panel, a storage device and an inverter, which operates on a load in the form of a "short" track coil. The use of a "short" track coil allows reducing electrical energy losses, since the traction force is formed only in the zone of interaction with the rolling stock, energy is not transmitted to unused sections of the track structure. By reducing the length of the working section, other energy indicators of the system as a whole are significantly suspended, in particular the power factor and effi-ciency. Reducing the length of the working sections in conditions of high speeds of rolling stock will lead to increased requirements for reliability and speed of operation of track switches. The track switches are created on the basis of power semiconductor switches, which are controlled by modern microcontrollers. The effectiveness of the proposed structure de-pends on the solar activity in the region of the transport artery. The estimated solar activity indicators allow us to state that the weight indicators of the rolling stock that must move on the track with a "short" section correspond to the available resources.