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Thermal Regulation of Photovoltaic Panels Using Aluminum Fins and RT Phase Change Materials: A Numerical Study

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Abstract:

Thermal management of solar panels is a major challenge, particularly in hot climates, and has attracted growing interest from both researchers and professionals in the photovoltaic (PV) sector. In this study, a two-dimensional numerical analysis was conducted to evaluate the thermal performance of an aluminum box filled with a phase change material (PCM) used for cooling a solar panel. The impact of integrating horizontal fins placed either on one side or on both sides of the PV/PCM system, was also examined to optimize heat transfer and stabilize temperature. The simulations indicate that a configuration with five fins arranged on one side, spaced 18.25 mm apart, provides effective cooling. The use of RT25 PCM maintains the surface temperature at 28 °C for 100 minutes before it gradually increases without exceeding 65 °C. Similarly, RT35 also demonstrates good thermal performance, maintaining the temperature between 35 and 43 °C for 252 minutes before eventually reaching a peak of 61 °C. These results highlight the effectiveness of the fins and the critical role of PCM selection in enhancing the thermal regulation of solar panels.

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Periodical:

Defect and Diffusion Forum (Volume 453)

Pages:

257-275

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4028/p-x7Fceu

Citation:

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Online since:

July 2026

Authors:

Abdelhafid El Ouassidi, Abdelkader Mir, Majdouline Alla, Hind Talbi, Omar Ghoulam, Kamal Amghar*, Ismael Driouch, Bilal El Monhim

Keywords:

Fins, Heat Transfer, Passive Cooling, Phase Change Materials (PCMs), Photovoltaic System, Thermal Management. Efficiency of Photovoltaic

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© 2026 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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* - Corresponding Author

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