Performance optimization of photovoltaic panels using hybrid nanofluid cooling with titanium oxide and aluminium oxide

High operating temperatures, particularly under high solar irradiance, significantly reduce the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) modules.The performance of PV systems declines as cell temperatures rise, underscoring the need for effective cooling mechanisms, particularly in regions with extreme thermal conditions.Hybrid nanofluids have emerged as a promising solution for thermal management in photovoltaic systems due to their enhanced thermophysical properties.Superior heat dissipation, convective heat transfer, light trapping, and thermal stability are all coupled with relatively low production costs.The effect of different concentrations of titanium oxide (TiO) and aluminum oxide (AlO) hybrid nanofluids on the thermal and electrical performances of photovoltaic modules is investigated in this study.An experimental setup was set up with five identical PV modules of which one was a reference.Meanwhile, the other four were subjected to various nanofluid concentrations on their rear surface.Realtime backside temperature profiles were recorded using K-type thermocouples, and electrical output parameters were measured using a data logger.Findings showed that, compared to the control, nanofluid coating improved the performance of the modules.In the absence of AlO, the optimal enhancement was found to be 0.4% TiO, which led to a 14.98% increase in output power and a 15.56% increase in efficiency.The results demonstrated here suggest that hybrid nanofluids may be a means to improve photovoltaic cooling strategies and increase the overall energy conversion efficiency.