Nanoveu unveils ‘world first’ solar panel coating technology
Nanoveu managing director Alfred Chong says the new coating technology is an attractive solution for enhancing the performance of solar assets worldwide.
Nanotechnology developer Nanoveu (ASX: NVU) has developed a proprietary coating to prevent algae growth and contaminant accumulation on photo-voltaic (solar) panels, in what it describes as a “world first” for the solar market.
The company has expanded its Nanoshield product suite include the E series hard coat, which is proprietary antimicrobial transparent coating that is self-maintaining, anti-fouling, anti-static and hydrophilic.
This coating has been designed for solar panels to inhibit biofilm from forming and algae growth.
Nanoveu managing director Alfred Chong said this addresses a major issue with algae and lichen growing on panels in humid climates, which then hinder energy output.
“With this new and unique development, we will work towards establishing Nanoveu as an attractive solution to enhance the performance of solar assets worldwide,” he added.
Surface contaminants
Main inhibitors to solar panel efficiency are surface contaminants, which can also result in corrosion.
Surface dust, water marks and sand can be removed with regular cleaning and maintenance, but this can also be costly.
Meanwhile, algae growth requires even more resources and maintenance to eradicate.
As well as being designed to prevent algae growth, Nanoveu’s coating inhibits sand, dirt and all other surface contaminants clinging to panels – decreasing the required cleaning frequency.
Self-cleaning properties
According to Nanoveu, this is because of the coating’s self-cleaning hydrophilic properties – meaning it washes away the dirt in rainwater.
“The hydrophilic effect reduces the angle of water droplets, allowing penetration beneath the contaminant,” Mr Chong explained.
“Anti-static, larger particle sized debris such as dirt and sand simply slides off the surface.”
As a result of these properties, the coating works in both humid and dry climates.
‘World first’ technology
Mr Chong said the company believes its coating technology is unique and a “world first” for the solar market.
To protect its intellectual property, Nanoveu will file for a patent covering the technology.
The company has identified 55 megawatts of projects in the Philippines as suitable candidates for trialling the technology.
As well as the solar market, Nanoveu expects its technology will be useful in other industries including ships and boat hulls that constantly require antifouling treatments.
Fortune Business Insights estimates the global solar power market will grow from US$234.86 billion (A$345 billion) in 2022 to US$373.84 billion (A$549 billion) by 2029.