Effect of organics on the adhesion of dust to PV panel surfaces under condensation

The deposition and adhesion of dust on the surface of photovoltaic (PV) panels cause a reduction in efficiency and pose safety hazards. It is necessary to investigate the factors and mechanisms of dust adhesion to PV panels to provide theoretical guidance in preventing the dust from adhering on the PV panels. This study analysed the chemical components of actual dust samples from five typical scenarios for PV applications, measured the adhesion strength of dust to PV panels with different organic contents under condensation, observed and analysed the morphology of dust adhesion interface, based on a series of experiments. At last, the mechanism by which organics promote dust adhesion was investigated. The results showed that human activities (life, transportation, production, and so on) were one of the main reasons for the difference of dust composition, especially for organic content. It was discovered that a higher organic content or more condensation cycles enhanced the adhesion strength. Condensation leaded to the accumulation of organics at the adhesion interface to form organic films, which increased the contact area at adhesion interface. Moreover, the organic films may form hydrogen bonds with the hydroxylated silica surface of the PV panels, increasing the adhesion strength. Finally, recommendations were provided to inhibit the dust adhesion to the PV panels.

Automated summary

This study investigated the factors and mechanisms of dust adhesion to PV panels. It found that human activities were the main reason for the difference in dust composition, especially organic content. Higher organic content and longer condensation cycles were found to enhance adhesion strength. The presence of organic films increased the contact area at the adhesion interface and formed hydrogen bonds with the PV panel surface, increasing adhesion strength.