Solar Panels are the most widely used form of green energy. When it comes to electrical output, they’re typically only twenty percent efficient. This causes Solar arrays to take up a massive amount of area to maximize their power output. Solar Panels also become less efficient when overheating. It’s a huge problem that the go to green energy gives off less power when the sun’s rays cause the panels to over heat.

Despite the drawbacks, solar energy is still worth the investment. They’ll only improve with time and with the help of carbon nano-tubes. When graphene is added to the equation, plus new ways to separate out conductive and metallic nano tubes, we can have more effective solar panels. The scientist at Northwestern University devolved a method of keeping the conductive nano tubes intact yet weeding them out of the mass of graphene by using a cresol-based solution. The result is a polymer like mass. This allows for mass production of conductive nano-tubes.  

The breakthrough of being able to select what nanotube is needed for the job opens the doors for cheaper composite nano-tubes. Most notable is the double wall nano-tubes that can separate positive and negative charges more efficiently. It doesn’t stop there, nano-tubes when arranged in array of cavities can absorbed unused infrared heat and turn it photons. This is a game changer, due to the fact that it takes the one thing that can lower the output of a normal solar panel and converts into energy. It has the potential to increase the efficiency output by eighty percent.

The researchers at King of Delhi University took things a step further. They discovered that when using nano-tubes on calcium chloride, they could reverse the normal effects of it absorbing water. A polymer like gel was synthesized and used on the backs of solar panels to release liquid build up through out the day cooling the solar panels down. The calcium chloride then absorbs moisture at night and repeats the cycle during the day.

With nanotube enhancements, solar panels may put a huge dent in our carbon footprint. We may end up giving the next generations a way better world then the one that was left for us to fix. This could also be used to power Carbon Engineering’s plant as well.

Going Green and Saving Some Green

The DIY Home Energy system will train individuals on how to install solar panels. With their training course and supply discounts, we can save a fortune in energy costs. The training program also includes instructions on applying solar panels on boats and RVs. For more information on how to cut cost click here