Simulation of particle deposition on solar photovoltaic panels based on a new critical capture velocity criterion

Solar energy, as a clean energy source, is becoming increasingly important in the global energy mix. However, particle deposition on the surface of photovoltaic (PV) panels can significantly reduce their power generation efficiency. In this study, the collision-deposition behaviour between silica particles and the surface of PV modules is investigated. The impact process of 13 μm silica particles on the glass surface was recorded by using a high-speed digital camera at various incident velocities and angles. A particle dynamics model was developed to predict the critical capture velocity of particles at different incident angles. It was observed that the critical capture velocity of the particles decreases as the angle of incidence increases. Subsequently, a correlation equation was established between the incident angle and the critical capture velocity, serving as the deposition criterion. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) numerical simulation was employed to simulate particle deposition on PV surfaces under different wind speeds and installation tilting angles. The simulation results demonstrate that the mass of 13 μm silica particles deposited on the surface of PV panels decreases with increasing wind speed. Moreover, under identical inlet wind speeds, the particle deposition mass exhibits an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease as the installation tilt angle of the PV panel increases. The distribution pattern of particle deposition on PV panel surfaces is diverse; however, predominantly concentrated at the mid-bottom region.