Self-cleaning hydrophobic nano coating for solar panel glass generating great results for nanoShell

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Easy to apply, long lasting and eco-friendly, it's two key benefits are; effective self-cleaning for up to five years and solar efficiency gains of up to 27 percent in wet weather.

The coating's low-friction surface stops dust and bird faeces from sticking to the glass and it's hydrophobic properties force water from the panel increasing the amount of light transmitted during wet weather. A 250ml bottle at £39.99 + vat is enough to coat a typical three kW solar array. With payback expected in well under a year it provides good return on investment, enabling clients to save on cleaning costs and gain from increased electricity/heat generation.

“We're really pleased with the results. We've been monitoring performance for 20 week so far and the coated panels have produced nearly 12 percent more electricity than the non-coated panels and it's kept them spotlessly clean,” commented Jonathan Abdilla, Managing Director of nanoShell ltd.

Why should I clean solar panels? Solar efficiency can be greatly compromised by dust and bird faeces collecting on the panels. Industry guidelines indicate that panels, including those sold as self-cleaning, should be cleaned quarterly if possible but no less than twice-yearly. nanoShell Solar PV uses German nanotechnology to provide a low-friction surface which prevents dust and bird faeces from binding to the glass.

What is Anti-wetting and how does it help? Anti-wetting (hydrophobicity) improves light transmission through glass. nanoShell Solar PV, a hydrophobic coating, repels water by increasing it's surface contact angle, forcing it to adopt droplet like structures. These droplets roll off the sloped panel taking any dust and dirt with them. This increases the amount of light which is allowed to transmit through the solar panel glass increasing solar efficiency during wet weather. In tests panels coated with nanoShell Solar PV have returned 27 percent more electricity than their neighbouring non-coated panels.

Eco-friendly? nanoShell Solar PV is non-toxic and biodegradable. Application: nanoShell Solar PV can be applied pre-install or during post-install maintenance, it's as easy as cleaning a window. Simply apply using a clean lint-free cloth in a small circular motions. No special equipment is required just a bit of elbow grease. If retro-fitting, the panels should be cleaned first using Isopropyl Alcohol.

Application on difficult to reach panels? nanoShell ltd are currently testing a new version of nanoShell Solar PV which can be applied from the ground using a boom system similar to that being deployed by most window cleaners. This version should be available in Q1 2012.

Where can I get nanoShell Solar PV? Currently nanoShell Solar PV can be purchased via our Plymouth office by calling 0845 838 8648. However, nanoShell ltd are hoping to set up a network of resellers in the UK and around the World. These will be MCS Installers, Panel Manufacturers and Solar Panel Cleaning companies.

If you are interested please don't hesitate to contact us. nanoShell Solar PV: Nanotechnology coating for solar panel glass, Self-cleaning Low-friction (Self-Cleaning), Hydrophobic (Anti-wetting), Non-Toxic Biodegradable Impervious to salts and chlorine protects glass from dust blown erosion, Easy to apply Low cost, Good ROI, £39.99 + VAT for 250ml to cover a typical three kW array (12 x 1.6m x 1m panels).

http://www.nanoshell.co.uk/protective-coatings/solar-panel-pv