Evaluating the distribution of soil particle size on glass samples by a new generation of optical microscopy for solar PV applications.

In this work, an image analysis technique combining a new generation optical microscope (Leica DM6 M) and Cleanliness Expert image acquisition and processing software is proposed for the study of dirt particles on PV modules in three different regions: Souss-Massa region, Drâa-Tafilalet region, and Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region. This method offers the possibility of providing an appropriate assessment of the particle size distribution. The analyzed glass samples were installed in these three different regions, on wooden holders tiled 15°, 30°, and 45° and for a period ranging from 64 to 75 days.

Waterless cleaning technique for photovoltaic panels on dual-axis tracker.

Several soiling mitigation solutions and cleaning techniques have been developed to maintain high efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels. First of its kind, the investigation of the adaptability of the cleaning systems to solar trackers has been performed. The majority of these systems are dedicated to fixed installations whereas only few systems that can be adapted to solar trackers are presented in the updated cleaning systems background.

Characterization of dust particles in South India and investigation on soiling image analysis for photovoltaic application.

The present work aims at the characterization of the dust particles in South India through an image analysis of glass samples inclined at a tilt of 0° and 13° for four different exposure periods (approximately 30 to 40 days/exposure period). It aims as well at the study of the different factors influencing the accuracy of the image analysis of dust particles. The analysis of the shape factor reveals that the dust particles on tilted surface (13°) have regular shapes, and irregular shapes are more observed in horizontal surfaces.

New approach towards mitigating photovoltaic panels soiling by dew flowing.

Soiling has a crucial importance regarding its impact mainly for countries that have high soiling levels, dust storms, water scarcity and a great solar energy potential as the case of Morocco. Soiling mitigation is therefore mostly required during spring, due to higher pollen concentration, and summer, due to the lack of heavy precipitation. In this work, systematic measurements of soiling ratio were made in Rabat, city of north-western Morocco, during almost 1 year.

Assessment of soiling effect on PV module glass transmittance in Moroccan capital region.

This work is a first part of the study in development on the mapping of soiling losses in the region of Rabat-Sale-Kenitra in Morocco. To perform the work, two holders of glass samples have been constructed and installed in two different sites of Sale City for three successive periods (from April to June 2019). At the end of each period, the transmittance losses of the glass samples as well as the mass of deposited soils are systematically measured.