Andi Pawawoi Pawawoi, Refdinal Nazir Refdinal, Muhammad Imran Hamid Hamid

Systematic Review: Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance through Hydrophobic Surface Coatings and Heat Mitigation

Introduction

Systematic review: enhancing photovoltaic performance through hydrophobic surface coatings and heat mitigation. Improve photovoltaic (PV) performance with hydrophobic & heat-mitigating coatings. This review covers advanced materials that reduce soiling, manage heat, and boost PV module power output.

Abstract

Surface coatings are essential for improving the performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules, particularly in challenging environments such as hot and dusty tropical regions or low-radiation subtropical areas. This study reviews recent developments in hydrophobic and heat-mitigating coatings that address two main problems: soiling and overheating. Both issues significantly reduce the efficiency and lifetime of PV systems. By systematically reviewing 32 selected studies, this paper identifies coating materials that combine self-cleaning, thermal regulation, and optical benefits. Among them, three-layer superhydrophobic coatings, silica–silane nanocomposites (e.g., SiO₂–PDMS, HDTMS–SiO₂), and Al₂O₃–H₂O nanofluids showed remarkable improvements in power output, optical transmission, and heat dissipation. For example, a three-layer superhydrophobic coating increased output power by 195.2% under simulated drizzle with heavy soiling, while SiO₂–PDMS nanocomposite films reduced surface temperature by 3.5 °C without reducing efficiency. These findings confirm that coating selection must balance hydrophobicity, heat management, durability, and cost. This review also highlights research gaps, particularly in long-term durability testing and large-scale application. The results provide practical guidelines for selecting appropriate coatings in different climates and suggest directions for developing multifunctional and scalable PV surface technologies.

Review

This systematic review thoroughly addresses a critical and timely topic concerning the enhancement of photovoltaic (PV) performance, particularly in challenging climatic conditions. By focusing on hydrophobic surface coatings and heat mitigation strategies, the authors tackle two major efficiency inhibitors: soiling and overheating. The paper’s strength lies in its systematic approach, synthesizing findings from 32 selected studies to identify effective coating materials that offer combined benefits. This comprehensive overview provides a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners grappling with the practical limitations of PV deployment in diverse environments, from hot, dusty regions to low-radiation areas. The review effectively highlights key advancements and specific material solutions demonstrating significant performance improvements. It draws attention to the remarkable capabilities of three-layer superhydrophobic coatings, silica–silane nanocomposites (e.g., SiO₂–PDMS, HDTMS–SiO₂), and Al₂O₃–H₂O nanofluids. The inclusion of quantitative examples, such as a 195.2% increase in output power under simulated heavy soiling conditions for superhydrophobic coatings and a 3.5 °C surface temperature reduction by SiO₂–PDMS nanocomposite films, powerfully illustrates the tangible benefits. The discussion on coatings that combine self-cleaning, thermal regulation, and optical benefits underscores the multifunctional requirements for optimal PV performance, guiding readers toward a nuanced understanding of material selection based on hydrophobicity, heat management, durability, and cost considerations. Furthermore, the paper commendably identifies crucial research gaps, particularly regarding long-term durability testing and scalability for large-scale application. This forthright acknowledgment of existing limitations adds significant value by directing future research efforts toward practical and commercially viable solutions. The insights offered in this review provide clear, practical guidelines for selecting appropriate coatings across various climates and establish a robust foundation for the development of next-generation multifunctional and scalable PV surface technologies. This work is a valuable contribution to the field, synthesizing current knowledge and charting a clear path for future innovation in PV performance enhancement.

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