In this work, layered hybrid composites formed by tin oxide (SnO) nanoparticles synthesized by hydrolysis and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) have been analyzed. Prior to the composite study, both SnO and PEDOT:PSS counterparts were characterized by diverse techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL), atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical absorption and Hall effect measurements. Special attention was given to the study of the stability of the polymer under laser illumination, as well as the analysis of the SnO to SnO₂ oxidation assisted by laser irradiation, for which different laser sources and neutral filters were employed. Synergetic effects were observed in the hybrid composite, as the addition of SnO nanoparticles improves the stability and electrical conductivity of the polymer, while the polymeric matrix in which the nanoparticles are embedded hinders formation of SnO₂. Finally, the Si passivation behavior of the hybrid composites was studied.

Thermography from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) is widely used for module condition surveys and defect detection in solar (photovoltaic) power plants. This article presents an optimized defect inspection procedure in which a two-stage autonomous flight strategy is adopted to reduce the operation time, and thereby the cost. The first stage is a fast high-altitude flight for rapid coverage of the entire plant. The resolution on the modules is then somewhat degraded, but adequate for detection of possible defect locations. In the second stage, an optimized flight path is calculated to revisit and image only the detected locations from a lower altitude, where the resolution is sufficient for the classification of defects. This concept is studied through simulations of different plant geometries and defect densities. The simulations are supported by actual data, including a plant-scale survey. The proposed strategy is shown to have the potential for significant savings in operation time, on the order of 60% in the experimental case with 2% module defects. Commonly reported defect densities of 0.5% to 1% will give even larger savings. The inspection strategy is shown to be especially beneficial for plant geometries representative of high latitudes.

Floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems are emerging as a promising solution to the scarcity of suitable land for ground-mounted solar PV (GPV) installations. By the end of 2022, global FPV capacity reached 5.7 GWp following a remarkable compound annual growth rate of approximately 87.5% from 2015 to 2022. This growth introduces a significant new frontier for operation and maintenance (O&M) practices in the solar industry. As the industry matures and more FPV assets come under operation, the need for innovative, efficient, and environmentally sensitive O&M strategies becomes imperative. This review presents the existing information on the O&M of FPV systems, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities that set FPV systems apart from conventional GPV installations. Through an examination of recent advancements, best practices, and areas requiring further research, this study aims to provide valuable insights for optimizing the performance and sustainability of FPV systems.