Temperature Regulation and Efficiency Enhancement in PV/T Systems Using Nano-PCM: Experimental Validation

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are integral to the global transition toward renewable energy; however, their performance is often compromised by excessive heat buildup, which lowers electrical efficiency. Traditional thermal management methods have limited effectiveness, and while phase change materials (PCMs) offer passive cooling capabilities, their low thermal conductivity restricts their performance. To address this, nano-enhanced PCMs (NEPCMs) have emerged as a promising solution, though the comparative advantages of mono and hybrid nanoparticle enhancements remain underexplored. In this study, a photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system was developed using paraffin wax (PW82) infused with TiO₂, Ti₃C₂ (MXene), and a TiO₂ + MXene hybrid at concentrations of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 wt.%. These NEPCMs were synthesized via direct mixing, and the system was experimentally tested under varying solar irradiance levels of 600, 800, and 1000 W/m². Results showed significant improvements in thermal conductivity and heat dissipation across all NEPCM types. Maximum PV cell temperature reductions were observed as 7°C with pure PCM, 11°C with TiO₂- NEPCM, 15°C with MXene-NEPCM, and 18°C with the TiO₂ + MXene hybrid. Both electrical and thermal outputs increased with nanoparticle concentration, with the 0.3 wt.% hybrid achieving the highest overall performance. The system’s maximum overall efficiency reached 81%, with performance trends following the order: TiO₂ \lt MXene < TiO₂ + MXene. These findings confirm the superior potential of hybrid NEPCMs in enhancing PV/T system efficiency and thermal regulation, offering a viable pathway for improving the reliability and effectiveness of solar energy technologies.