Cooling Effect of 3D Oscillating Heat Pipe with Nanofluid on Photovoltaic Panel in Hot Climates

Nowadays, there has been a growing trend toward using photovoltaic systems due to their high efficiency and cost-effectiveness; nevertheless, an inevitable side of solar panels is that their efficiency and life span experience a reduction when they are exposed to high intensity of solar irradiance and warm-up. In other words, when they are cooled, the electrical efficiency is promoted. Using oscillating heat pipes is a creative and practical approach to enhance PV efficiency. Furthermore, applying nanofluid as a working fluid can play an important role in maximizing panel productivity. The main objective of this investigation is to explore the cooling effect of a three-dimensional oscillating heat pipe on a photovoltaic panel, while graphene oxide nanofluid and distilled water are used as coolants. For this purpose, a novel three-dimensional oscillating heat pipe has been designed. The significant result from the study is that the cooling system was able to lower the temperature and improve the power output of the PV by 8.6 °C and 2.78 (W), respectively, in the warmest time of the day, when graphene oxide nanofluid was used as a coolant.