Enhancing Solar Energy Conversion with an Integrated Dual-Layer Coating: A Synergistic Approach

This study introduces an advanced dual-layer anti-reflective (AR) and self-cleaning coating system for solar panels, combining a TiO۲/SiO۲ composite layer with a ZnO/SiO۲ underlayer to enhance optical performance and thermal management. The top layer (۱۰۱ nm) improves visible light transmittance by ۳% and exhibits photocatalytic self-cleaning properties, achieving a water contact angle of ۷.۵°. The ZnO/SiO۲ layer selectively reflects near-infrared radiation, reducing operating temperatures by ~۶°C. Refractive index engineering (۱.۸-۲.۱) and interfacial Si-O-Ti bonds ensure hydrophilicity, mechanical durability, and environmental stability. Numerical modeling using transfer matrix methodology validates experimental results, with <۱% deviation between simulated and measured transmittance spectra. The MATLAB-based multilayer optical model predicts energy coefficients (R+T+A=۱) across UV-Vis-NIR wavelengths, demonstrating ۹۶.۲% transmittance stability after accelerated environmental testing. This bilayer system outperforms single-layer coatings in photon management (۸۹-۹۲% average transmittance) and thermal regulation. The integrated experimental-simulation approach provides a robust framework for optimizing spectrally-selective coatings, addressing critical challenges in solar panel efficiency and durability under real-world conditions. This work advances the development of high-performance, sustainable solar energy technologies.

کلیدواژه ها:

Refractive Index Optimization ، Transfer Matrix Method (TMM) ، Solar Cells ، Numerical Modeling