“`markdown
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has achieved a significant milestone by developing a new composite material that enhances the efficiency and lifespan of solar cells through innovative cooling technology. This advancement has the potential to reduce the maintenance costs associated with solar panels, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
The findings of this research, conducted in collaboration with the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, were published in the journal *Materials Science and Engineering*. The study addresses the limitations of commercial solar panels, which typically convert only about 20% of sunlight into electricity, with the rest being absorbed as heat or reflected away. High temperatures can compromise the efficiency and performance of solar cells, leading to a shorter lifespan and more frequent replacements.
Traditional cooling systems, such as fans and pumps, consume electrical energy, whereas the newly developed passive cooling method requires no electricity. Lead researcher Professor Chiaochiang Gan explained that the nanomaterials used in this passive cooling process are thin and can be applied to various systems that require cooling, including solar cells and agricultural greenhouses, without impacting their performance.
The research team created a material that absorbs moisture from the air at night and releases it during the day. When applied to solar cells, especially in coastal areas of Saudi Arabia, this material helps maintain lower temperatures, improving efficiency. The passive cooling technology is projected to reduce electricity generation costs from solar cells by 18%.
Experiments conducted in cold and rainy regions of the United States demonstrated the technology’s effectiveness across diverse climatic conditions. Preliminary studies also suggest potential applications for this material in light-emitting devices, which often experience reduced efficiency at higher temperatures.
Abdullah Al-Muqbil, a researcher at the Institute of Microelectronics and Semiconductors and co-author of the study, noted that these findings may also extend to lighting and laser technologies. The KAUST research team has set new records for solar cell efficiency, showcasing the university’s diverse expertise.
The Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies, which conducted this research, is one of four such centers at KAUST. Its mission is to support Saudi Arabia’s national goals in areas including artificial intelligence, food security, renewable energy, storage technologies, and smart health.
“`
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/kaust-unveils-innovative-cooling-technology-to-enhance-solar-panel-efficiency-and-longevity/
