Numerical-experimental study to improve photovoltaic panel cooling by using hybrid ZnO/Al2O3 nanofluids

Hybrid nanofluids, specifically ZnO and Al2O3 nanoparticles, have shown significant potential in enhancing the cooling performance of photovoltaic panels. This tackles overheating, a major issue with PV systems, which results in efficiency losses. This study used 0.02 % hybrid nanofluid (Al 2 O 3 /Zno) flowing at the bottom of PV panels for cooling. In this work offers suggestions for improving PV cooling and contrasts the thermal and electrical efficiency of air-cooled, water-cooled, and hybrid nanofluid-cooled panels. The paper combines a thorough case study of three cooling techniques with CFD simulations using a mixed numerical-experimental methodology, providing practical insights for PV applications in the real world. Three PV panels with the same specifications that were cooled by water, air, and a hybrid nanofluid in a single-pass system were examined using CFD models. Results were compared between hybrid nanofluid-cooled cells and water-air-cooled cells experimentally and numerically. The electrical efficiency values of hybrid nanofluids have increased compared to water and air numerically and experimentally. Along June 2023. The power increases when using hybrid nanofluids compared to air and water respectively experimentally and numerically. The PV temperature of hybrid nanofluids cooling is decreasing compared to air-cooled and water-cooled respectively. Hybrid nanofluids, especially ZnO and Al2O3 have shown promising results in enhancing the cooling performance of photovoltaic panels, leading to increased efficiency and overall effectiveness of solar energy systems. • Hybrid nanofluid have significant potential in enhancing the cooling of PV panels. • Using 0.02 % hybrid nanofluid (Al2O3/ZnO) flowing at the bottom of PV panels for cooling. • Three PV panels with the same specifications were cooled in a single-pass system. • Results were compared between hybrid nanofluid, water and air cooling. • The electrical efficiency values of hybrid nanofluids have increased compared to water.