Natural cleaning effects on deposited atmospheric particles: a case study of Asian dust, pollen, and volcanic ash

Abstract

Natural atmospheric particles, such as yellow sand, pollen, and volcanic ash, are frequently deposited on exposed surfaces, potentially reducing the optical performance of solar panels and other transparent systems. However, the removability of these particle types under environmental conditions has not been compared systematically. In this work, we conducted laboratory experiments to evaluate the removability of yellow sand, pollen, and volcanic ash deposited on slide glass surfaces as representative natural particulates. Controlled wind and simulated rainfall were applied separately and in combination to investigate particle adhesion and cleaning behavior. Although pollen was efficiently removed by wind, it had the greatest effect on light transmittance per unit weight. In contrast, yellow sand exhibited strong adhesion and low removability.