Silica-based Coatings for Solar Spectrum Control

Solar panels face a "triple threat": UV damage, dirt buildup, and overheating. Coatings are an effective way to combat these issues, however current coating solutions seldom address all three. This thesis explores a holistic and sustainable strategy --- a versatile silica-based coating designed to mitigate them all. By mimicking plant chemical protection to block UV rays, creating self-cleaning surfaces to shed dirt, and using "radiative cooling" to release heat, this single material platform can act as a multi-functional shield. This approach, with further refinement, can help ensure that solar panels stay efficient and durable, helping us secure a future for clean energy.