Application of a Solid–Solid Nanocomposite PCM for Thermal Management of a Solar PV Panel

This chapter explores how phase change materials (PCMs) can improve solar photovoltaic (PV) cell efficiency. The temperature at which silicon-based solar cells operate has a significant impact on their electrical performance; as temperatures rise, power output decreases. The literature suggests that for every degree Celsius that the cell temperature rises, the power output should decrease by about 0.65%. The absorption of solar light in the infrared spectrum is the main cause of this temperature rise. This study examines the efficacy of neopentyl glycol, a high-latent-heat PCM, as a heat sink to lessen the negative impacts of rising temperatures on PV cell efficiency. Moreover, the combination of neopentyl glycol and alumina nano-additives is investigated to evaluate the effect of highly conductive nanomaterials in a low-conductivity PCM matrix. Three different samples are created, each containing different weight ratios of alumina in neopentyl glycol (0.1%, 0.5%, and 1%). After 200 thermal cycles, the samples are subjected to a comprehensive evaluation of their thermal and chemical stability using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The T-history approach is also used to investigate changes in specific heat and thermal conductivity. The results provide insightful information about how PCM-based cooling systems may be used to improve the efficiency and lifespan of solar PV systems.