Why is dust a problem for solar panels?

Dust in the environment poses a serious problem. The deposition of dust particles on the surfaces of solar modules will reduce the transmittance of the protective covers, which would then lower the photoelectric conversion efficiency due to the light reflection and absorption by accumulated dust particles.

Why is glass used in solar modules?

Introduction Glass is widely used in solar modules to protect the active devices from harsh environmental conditions, for example, dust storms, humidity, heavy rains, wind, etc , . The high transmittance of glass surfaces enables the sunlight to reach the inside of the solar modules to the maximum extent.

How do you measure the transmittance of dust particles?

After dust particles impact the sample surfaces for 10 h, the transmittance of the coated surfaces and the BGS are measured. The reduction in transmittance is then calculated as the difference of transmittance between a clean sample and the sample with dust. The impinging experiment for each sample surface is repeated for 5 times.

How does adhered dust move?

The adhered dust moves for a short distance by the impinging of the external dust. However, the adhered dust finally stops and remains on the surface (see the red circle in the last picture of Fig. 9a).

Why do solar panels have a high transmittance?

The high transmittance of glass surfaces enables the sunlight to reach the inside of the solar modules to the maximum extent. Then, the sunlight absorbed by the solar cells can be converted into electric energy effectively.

How to generate dusty surfaces?

The method to generate dusty surfaces has been described in the experimental section (Fig. 1b). The dusty surfaces are formed by the free setting method. The sample surfaces are also divided into two parts, one half is the BGS and the other is THCs or TSCs.