How Dust Layer Affects the Absorption Rate of a Solar Panel

Overview

Objectives/Goals My hypothesis was that dust layer will affect the absorption rate of a solar panel because the dust layer will block the sun from hitting the solar panel, therefore making it so the solar panel is less effective. Methods/Materials 12 volt , 1.5 watt solar panel Voltage meter Results The results of my investigation on how dust layer effects the absorption rate of a solar panel shows more dust layer applied to the solar panel, the less the solar panel is going to absorb. Average volts for week 1, control: 16.63 volts Average volts for week 6: 14.08 volts Conclusions/Discussion I found that my hypothesis was correct. Dust layer did effect the absorption rate of a solar panel because the dust blocked the photovoltaic cells from producing energy from the sun, therefore making the solar panel less efficient. The average result for week 1, no dust layer as 16.63 volts. After 5 more weeks of testing, week 6 had a result of 14.08 volts. This helped me come to conclusion the more dust on the solar panel the less the solar panel is going to absorb from the sun.

Competition history

• CSEF 2012 Alternative Energy (Junior Division Only) · Entry J0214

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