Research Info

Numerous studies have explored methods to improve the efficiency of photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems by reducing PV panel temperature and extracting thermal energy. This study investigates two practical and costeffective cooling methods: incorporating a porous medium and utilizing phase change material/steel wool composite (PCM/SWC) capsules. The porous medium promotes heat transfer by inducing turbulence within the PV/T system. The PCM/SWC capsules act as thermal storage units, absorbing heat from the panels during the day and releasing it in the evening. Experiments were conducted under two scenarios: with and without the porous medium, at mass flow rates of 0.08 kg/s and 0.15 kg/s. Results showed that the porous medium reduced PV panel temperature by up to 8.5 ◦C, while increasing the outlet air temperature by up to 2.5 ◦C. This temperature reduction led to increased electrical current and power generation of up to 4.3 % and 7.7 %, respectively, resulting in improved electrical and thermal efficiencies. The porous medium enhanced daily thermal, electrical, and overall efficiencies by 190.4 %, 5.1 %, and 75.6 %, respectively, and improved overall exergy efficiency by 5.07 %. This study demonstrates that the combination of a porous medium and PCM/SWC capsules offers a robust and economical approach to enhancing PV/T system efficiency.