Fostering wider application of anti-soiling strategies in existing solar power plants: A comparative study of novel quaternarized silica hybrids with commercial self-cleaning coatings

The global financial impact of soiling on solar power plants is enormous. Anti -soiling coatings offer a promising alternative to reduce labor expenses, minimize water usage, and deter soiling. However, most commercial coatings do not meet the requirements of contemporary solar power applications. This study presents a simple method for developing ambiently cured transparent hydrophobic anti -soiling coatings for PV modules and CSP mirrors based on quaternarized silica hybrids. The coatings were examined in terms of surface energy, microstructure, durability, transmittivity, and reflectance. The soiling rate during real -field exposure was also evaluated. It was found that the proposed coatings present a promising alternative to contemporary anti -soiling strategies by being able to be periodically rejuvenated during regular maintenance of solar power plants, thus ensuring sustained functionality over an extended period.