In Poland, a solution to the problem of reduced efficiency of solar panels in winter was found.

Scientists from the Warsaw University of Technology and Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan have developed a coating that protects photovoltaic solar panels from icing in winter. They used a transparent silicone-epoxy resin modified with octaspherisilanes, which enhance anti-icing properties.

According to the researchers, the formation of snow and ice on solar panels can hinder the passage of light and reduce electricity production in winter.

The coating could replace de-icing methods used in the industry that are ineffective. There are no mentions in the literature about the use of similar resin and coating modifications.

The scientists developed five different samples of coatings with various chemical combinations. During testing, they were able to reduce ice adhesion by 43% and delay freezing 70 times longer compared to unmodified coatings.

The researchers also noted that these coatings can be used for photovoltaic panels since the modification does not affect their optical properties.

It was previously known that solar energy has become an ecological issue in Australia, where solar panels cannot be disposed of in landfills due to the high cost of waste processing.