Hybrid PCM–nanofluid cooling for photovoltaic modules: outdoor experimental performance evaluation

Abstract

Elevated operating temperatures significantly degrade photovoltaic module performance, creating a strong demand for effective thermal management solutions. This study investigates enhanced thermal regulation in PV systems through the integration of encapsulated phase change material and serpentine tube cooling within a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal configuration. The objective was to experimentally evaluate and compare the electrical and thermal performance of this design with a fin-assisted PV/T module, with particular emphasis on the role of latent heat storage. Two PV/T configurations were fabricated: one comprising serpentine copper tubes combined with PCM encapsulated in thermally conductive aluminium pouches, and another employing serpentine tubes with louvered fins to enhance convective heat transfer. A (MWCNT)/water nanofluid was used as the circulating coolant. The novelty of this work lies in the integrated use of encapsulated PCM with serpentine tube cooling to improve PV thermal regulation. Statistical significance of the cooling configurations was confirmed using ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD tests. PCM-integrated PV/T system achieved a maximum power output of 41.5 W and an electrical efficiency of 9.3%, corresponding to relative improvements of 62.7% in power output and 45.3% in efficiency compared with the reference module (25.5 W, 6.4%). The fin-assisted configuration also demonstrated enhanced performance, reaching 37.3 W and 8.4% efficiency. Moreover, the PCM-based system exhibited superior thermal energy recovery and operational stability by mitigating thermal stress during peak irradiance. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of PCM–serpentine tube integration for improving PV/T system performance and reliability in combined electrical and thermal energy applications.