Using binary-eutectic phase change materials and ZnO/aluminum nitride nanofillers to improve photovoltaic efficiency

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of binary-eutectic phase change materials (BE-PCMs) for controlling the surface heat of PV panels. Comprising petroleum jelly, beeswax, and ZnO/aluminum nitride (AlN) nanoparticles, five PCMs are synthesized—PCM#a through PCM#e—with beeswax to petroleum jelly volume ratios of 5 %/95 %, 10 %/90 %, 15 %/85 %, 20 %/80 %, and 25 %/75 %. The primary objective is to enhance temperature regulation and electric efficiency of PV panel by BE-PCMs, which its performance optimized using Response Surface Methodology. The effects of beeswax volume fraction in petroleum jelly (x₁ = 5–25 %), weight ratio of ZnO to AlN (x₂ = 0.2–1), and ZnO/AlN nanoparticle weight fraction (x₃ = 0–10%wt) are evaluated. Results indicated that BE-PCMs lowered the PV panel's maximum temperature from 61.84 °C to 47.65 °C, compared to a reduction to 53.97 °C with BE-PCM alone. The optimal volume fractions of beeswax and petroleum jelly were found to be 13.86 % and 86.14 %, respectively; when beeswax exceeded 13.86 %, PV temperature increased. Furthermore, x₃ values of 8–10 % yielded the lowest temperature and highest electrical efficiency. Specifically, BE-PCMs with x₃ = 8.77%wt and x₂ = 0.574 achieved a peak electrical efficiency of 12.98 % and a power output of 7.79 W.