Investigation of the Effects of SiO₂ and TiO₂ Nanocoatings on Photovoltaic Module Performance under Iraqi Meteorological Conditions
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Abstract
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are fundamental to the renewable energy transition, yet high ambient temperatures and dust accumulation severely impair their performance in harsh climates. While nanocoatings offer a promising mitigation strategy, comparative outdoor experimental studies under Iraqi environmental conditions remain limited. This study experimentally investigates the effects of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanocoatings on the energy and exergy performance of photovoltaic modules under the prevailing meteorological conditions of Baghdad, Iraq. Three identical PV modules were monitored under the same conditions: two were coated, and one was left uncoated as a reference. During the testing period, the key electrical outputs, solar irradiance and temperature of the module were monitored and evaluated. The SiO2-coated panel showed an increase in electrical efficiency of 11.41% and a 7.2% increase was observed for the TiO2-coated panel after an exposure period of seventeen days in an outdoor environment compared to the reference PV panel. This work provides practical, realistic insights on the applicability of nanocoating technologies for large-scale PV installations in harsh climates and paves the way for the development of cheap, climate-appropriate solutions for solar energy systems in Iraq and similar environments.
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