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1,000 times more efficient than usual: scientists present the world`s first "hydrogen solar" panel
The Solhyd hydrogen panel operates on a unique principle that distinguishes it from traditional solar panels and electrolyzers. This device combines a standard photovoltaic battery with a specially designed layer that generates hydrogen by adsorbing water vapor from humid air with a special material.
What is known about the new development of scientists
Water vapor accumulates inside the panel, and under the influence of sunlight, a photoelectrochemical cell separates it into hydrogen and oxygen. This device is so innovative that it "ignores" sunlight and works with light based on a different principle.
The key element of the system is a membrane that can collect and concentrate water vapor in a conversion chamber. Energy from the upper layer is used to activate catalysts that split air and water molecules.
This process can occur independently of water and does not require a connection to the power grid, making the system completely autonomous for hydrogen production.
How much energy can a hydro panel generate
A single Solhyd module is capable of producing about 6 kilograms of hydrogen per year in a northwestern European climate. In comparison, a rooftop solar power plant half the size with 20 hydrogen panels can provide 120 to 240 kilograms of hydrogen annually, equivalent to about 4 to 8 megawatts per hour of hydrogen energy
The panels have a peak efficiency of 15%, with a realistic efficiency target of 12% or more. They also feature several important characteristics, such as compatibility with most commercial photovoltaic modules and are made from high-quality materials. This makes it easy to integrate with other solar systems, especially modern models.
Each panel can produce up to 250 liters of hydrogen per day under optimized conditions. The annual hydrogen output from panels installed on a 1,000 square meter roof is between 2 and 4 tons. The output largely depends on the amount of solar radiation.
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