Numerical assessment of Lorentz-force-driven nanofluid cooling in trapezoidal ducts for improved solar panel performance

This study explores strategies to boost the productivity of solar panel operating in dusty environments by employing the Lorentz force as an active cooling mechanism. The cooling system features a trapezoidal duct equipped with fins. The duct is filled with a ferrofluid composed of water and Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and simulations were conducted for two different nanoparticle volume fractions (ϕ). The photovoltaic module is modeled as a multilayer structure, with a thermoelectric generator (TEG) positioned beneath the absorber to convert thermal gradients into supplementary electrical energy. The study evaluates electrical efficiency (ηₑl) across various operational conditions. To assess the effect of electromagnetic forces, the Hartmann number (Ha) was varied alongside different inlet velocities (Vin) and dust mass concentrations (ω). Results show that thermal efficiency (ηth) improves with higher inlet velocity and stronger magnetic fields, while increased dust deposition significantly reduces performance. Similarly, electrical efficiency benefits from enhanced Ha and Vin but declines sharply under heavy dust accumulation. The incorporation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles greatly enhances cooling effectiveness and thermal regulation. Specifically, at Ha = 77, increasing the inlet velocity further boosts thermal and electrical efficiencies. Additionally, system performance uniformity improves substantially with higher magnetic field strength and faster inlet flow, demonstrating that the combination of Lorentz-force cooling, nanofluid enhancement, and thermoelectric integration provides a robust solution for maintaining solar panel performance under challenging dusty conditions.