Experimental investigation of robust and hydrophobic solar cell cover glass with transparent, self-cleaning hybrid SiO2/TiO2 coatings

Utilizing advanced spray-coating techniques, a cutting-edge coating is developed, boasting transparency, self-cleaning capabilities, durability, and water resistance. By combining modified titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles with a silica (SiO2) binder, a potent solution is applied to glass surfaces. This coating effectively repels water, exhibiting contact angles ranging from 121.7° to 143.2°, showcasing its resilience. Under the scrutiny of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), a captivating nanoparticle pattern emerges on the glass, forming a unique micro-nano architecture. Spectroscopic analysis, employing Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) technology, affirms the coating's ability to maintain clarity and enhance translucency. Tested on a Photovoltaic module, the coating's self-cleaning properties are confirmed. Additionally, an image processing approach was employed to assess the coating's performance in dust repulsion. The coating exhibited strong resistance to basic solutions, maintaining a comparable soiled ratio to the unexposed sample even after soaking in sodium hydroxide. Similarly, the coating's performance in repelling dust particles after mechanical abrasion on sandpaper was evaluated. After four cycles, the coating showed improvement in roughness, enhancing its efficacy. However, beyond five cycles of mechanical abrasion, coating degradation occurred, leading to its removal from the surface. This innovative technology holds immense potential for a variety of applications, promising heightened performance and durability in optical environments.