Efficient Design Paradigm for Harvesting Solar Energy: Dynamic Tunability of Heating/Cooling Mode Using Advanced Nanotechnology

The recent spike in interest in replacing fossil energy with cleaner, more sustainable energy has directed research attention towards enhancing solar energy efficiency. Photovoltaic (PV) devices that transform solar radiation energy into electricity are known as solar cells. With global urbanization rising, more modernized housing and commercial spaces are likely to be created in cities, demanding even more energy for heating and cooling. Solar collectors are intended to create effective power using solar heating and radiative cooling systems. Because solar heating and radiative cooling have similar operating principles, integrating these two technologies into a single system is highly desired for everyday use. Due to superior thermal conductivity, nanofluids can significantly improve the efficiency of solar collectors. Nanomaterials applications for solar energy harvesting are also expanding due to their mechanical characteristics and photonic applications, which are more relevant for developing and producing dual-mode heating systems. With further advancements of efficient nanofluids, solar collectors can deliver more heat for solar heating and efficient solar heat-cycle cooling.