nanoShell, a Plymouth-based performance coating specialist, has launched nanoShell Solar PV – a self-cleaning hydrophobic coating for solar module glass.
The coating lasts up to five years and nanoShell claim that, according to its own testing, solar efficiency gains of up to 27 percent can be achieved in inclement weather.
The solution uses nanotechnology to provide a low-friction surface which prevents debris, such as dust and bird faeces, from binding to the glass and lowering efficiency rates. The hydrophobic coating also improves light transmission through glass by repelling water because of an increased water contact angle, which forces the water to adopt droplet-like structures. The formed droplets then roll off the sloped panel, effectively cleaning the module.
A typical 250ml bottle of nanoShell’s Solar PV coating is enough to cover an average 3kW installation. The solution is resistant to salty air and helps protect against the growth of micro-organisms and bacteria, further reducing the need for frequent cleaning of solar panels.
Jonathan Abdilla, Managing Director of nanoShell ltd said: “We’re really pleased with the results. We’ve been monitoring performance for 18 weeks so far and the coated panels have produced 11 percent more electricity than the non-coated and it’s kept them spotlessly clean.”
Currently nanoShell Solar PV is only available at the company’s Plymouth headquarters. However, nanoShell is looking at developing a network of resellers across the UK.
Below is a demonstration of the hydrophobic, self-cleaning glass coating effect of nanoShell's Solar Panel Coatings.
