Dr. Michele Ferrari, Staff Researcher, CNR-ICMATE (Institute of Condensed Matter and Technologies for Energy), Italy.

Title: Amphiphobic coatings with self-cleaning properties for photovoltaic panels

Abstract: The solar modules are subject to various factors that reduce their performance. In addition to the endogenous phenomena of the module, (i.e. reduction of cell efficiency, oxidation of the electrical contacts, increase of the reflectance of the receiving surfaces) there are other phenomena that affect the glass front layer: a) progressive dirtying of glass by deposition of fine particles, b) deposition of liquid or solid organic components c) dew formation.

Highly hydro and oleophobic (amphiphobic) coatings can be used as an effective solution to reduce the negative effect due to surface alteration due to the "self-cleaning" effect which allows to prevent the entry into the surface cavities of powders, particulate, organic residues as well as the formation of dew.

In this work a superhydrophobic/ amphiphobic coatings have been prepared, characterized and tested for its employ on solar panels. The produced coating is easily applicable and have high transmittance.

Preliminary tests for wearing, thermal stress and durability have been also performed in order to study amphiphobic systems for solar panel application.

Keywords: amphiphobic, coating, solar panels, wetting