Fluoropolymer coatings for solar cover glass: Anti-soiling mechanisms in the presence of dew

Soiling of solar cover glass can cause a significant loss of electrical output from PV panels. Dew condensed on the surface exacerbates soiling rates and promotes reactions between dust and glass leading to stronger adhesive forces that make cleaning more expensive. To reduce soiling rates and lower cleaning costs, anti-soiling coatings are being developed. Although the interactions between dust particles and uncoated low-iron glass surfaces are known, the mechanisms by which anti-soiling coatings reduce soiling rates are less well understood.