Small grid-connected photovoltaic systems up to 5 kW p are often not monitored because advanced surveillance systems are not economical. Hence, some system failures which lead to partial energy losses stay unnoticed for a long time. Even a failure that results in a larger energy deficit can be difficult to detect by PV laymen due to the fluctuating energy yields.Within the EU project PVSAT-2, a fully automated performance check has been developed to assure maximum energy yields and to optimize system maintenance for small grid-connected PV systems. The aim is the early detection of system malfunctions and changing operating conditions to prevent energy and subsequent financial losses for the operator. The developed procedure is based on satellitederived solar irradiance information that replaces on-site measurements. In conjunction with a simulation model the expected energy yield of a PV system is calculated. In case of the occurrence of a defined difference between the simulated and actual energy yield, an automated failure detection routine searches for the most probable failure sources and notifies the operator.This paper describes the individual components of the developed procedure-the satellite-derived irradiance, the used PV simulation model, and the principles of the automated failure detection routine. Moreover, it presents results of an 8-months test phase with 100 PV systems in three European countries.
Polypeptoid brushes were synthesized by surface-initiated polymerization of N-substituted glycine N-carboxyanhydrides (NNCAs) on self assembled amine monolayers. Using the presented grafting from approach, polypeptoid brush thicknesses of approx. 40 nm could be obtained as compared previously reported brush thicknesses of 4 nm. Moreover, hydrophilic, hydrophobic and amphiphilic polymer brushes were realized which are expected to have valuable applic-tions as non-fouling surfaces and as model or references systems for surface grafted polypeptides.
2D mussel-inspired polydopamine (PDA) nanosheets are prepared and exploited as a functional surface for grafting various polymer brushes. The PDA nanosheet and its polymer-brush derivatives show lateral integrity and are robust; therefore, they can be detached from their substrates. Cell-adhesion tests show that the PDA nanosheet promotes cell growth and attachment, while a PDA-based poly(3-sulfopropyl methacrylate) carpet exhibits nonfouling behavior.
Patterned polypeptoid brushes on gold and oxide substrates are synthesized by surface-initiated polymerization of N-substituted glycine N-carboxyanhydrides. Their biofouling resistance is shown by protein and cell adhesion experiments. The accessibility of the system to common patterning protocols is demonstrated by UV-lithography and a μCP approach. Moreover, the terminal secondary amine group of the polypeptoid brushes is functionalized with different fluorescent dyes to demonstrate their chemical accessibility.
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