Improving the Performance of Thin-film BIPV on Facades by Using Shapememory Alloy Composite Materials

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the possibility of improving the efficiency of buildingintegrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems by employing thermally adaptive composite materials. The goal is to increase energy output by maximizing the efficiency with which solar tracking and solar irradiance are used. The first step in this investigation is a thorough literature review of prior research on topics such as BIPV systems, solar tracking technologies, and the use of thermally adaptive materials. The review pinpoints the blank spots in our understanding and provides the foundation for our research hypothesis. To confirm the viability of employing thermally adaptive composite materials in BIPV systems, a pilot study is carried out. The research combines experimental and simulated data to evaluate the thermal response and effect on energy production of fixed and dynamic BIPV systems' ability to capture solar irradiance. The effectiveness of BIPV curvature is examined through extensive simulations. Solar irradiance, temperature variations, and panel tilt angle orientation are just some of the variables considered. The simulations confirm the optimal BIPV curvatures, which prompted the design and fabrication of thermally adaptive BIPV and shed light on the potential benefits of using thermally adaptive materials for solar tracking and energy optimization. A one-year experimental study was conducted in Lawrence, Kansas, at the University of Kansas campus Research and Design Center outdoor space to measure the energy production of fixed vertical BIPV, optimal fixed flat BIPV, optimal fixed curved BIPV, thermally adaptive BIPV systems at different tilting angles based on the simulation results. Hourly measurements of current and voltage, as well as surface temperature, outdoor ambient temperature, and wind speed and direction, are taken to assess performance throughout the day. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and other statistical methods are used to determine the significance of the differences. According to the results, thermally adaptive BIPV systems generate 35.8 percent more energy on average than fixed vertical BIPV systems, 12.3 percent more energy than fixed optimal flat BIPV systems, and 9.6 percent more energy than fixed optimal curved BIPV systems. The findings also show how crucial solar tracking is and how thermally adaptive composite materials can improve solar irradiance utilization. In conclusion, this dissertation offers a comprehensive look into the effect of using thermally adaptive composite materials in BIPV systems.