Experimental analysis of photovoltaic thermal system assisted with nanofluids for efficient electrical performance and hydrogen production through electrolysis

Abstract

In this study the influence of the nanofluid in the photovoltaic thermal system (PVT) has been examined experimentally. The nanoparticles zinc oxide (ZnO) dispersed in the base fluid water at the concentration of 0.25 %wt. A series of experimental tests were conducted between 9:00 A.M. to 16:00 P.M. ZnO nanofluids passed through the PVT panel at various mass flow rates. To increase the thermal efficiency and performance of the PVT, instead of using plain water, nanofluids were introduced. The parameters such as output power, surface temperature, fluid outlet temperature, thermal efficiency, and electrical efficiency were examined at the different mass flow rates such as 0.008 kg/s, 0.010 kg/s, and 0.012 kg/s. Added to above, the proposed photovoltaic thermal system was also assisted in producing hydrogen by electrolysis process. Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) has been used to generate the hydrogen via electrolysis. With the use of nanofluids, the electrical efficiency and thermal efficiency were increased owing to the reduction in the cell temperature. Introduction of the nanofluids at the optimal mass flow rate helps the panel to produce higher electrical output. The hydrogen yield rate was also increased by the use of nano -fluids. Among the different mass flow rate, 0.012 kg/s reported maximum thermal efficiency of 33.4% with the hydrogen production rate of 17.4 ml/min. Based on the extensive observed results procured, photovoltaic thermal systems can be a promising candidate for the pro-duction of hydrogen using PEM electrolyzer.