Enhancing the performance of photovoltaic–thermal collector using CNT-infused MgO nanofluids and natural additive

The present work intended to explore the synergistic effects of incorporating carbon nanotubes infused with magnesium oxide nanofluid and dragon fruit extract as a natural additive in photovoltaic–thermal collector systems on its performance in terms of both electrical and thermal energy yield. The proposed methodology was meticulously developed and implemented to assess the efficiency of a hybrid system integrating nano-phase change material and nanofluid in a photovoltaic–thermal configuration. This novel setup was subjected to a comprehensive comparative analysis against a traditional liquid-cooled photovoltaic–thermal system and a standalone photovoltaic module. The study also encompassed variations in cooling techniques, including water with different flow rates for the photovoltaic–thermal system, and the incorporation of nano-phase change material and nanofluid with varying concentrations and flow rates within the hybrid collector. The outcomes demonstrated that at these respective flow rates, the maximum thermal efficiency of the photovoltaic–thermal collector stood at 66.28% and 74.02%. Likewise, the peak electrical efficiency at the same flow rates was recorded as 20.79% and 21.96%. The outcomes of the investigation highlight the higher thermal conductivity of the nanofluid compared to the base fluid, leading to a slight augmentation in fluid density and viscosity. The results obtained from this investigation were found to be consistent with those documented in existing scientific literature.