Synergistic optimization of composition–process–structure to achieve an ultrahigh reflectance photovoltaic ink coatings

Photovoltaic highly reflective coatings present a cost-effective strategy for enhancing solar module efficiency by facilitating secondary light absorption. However, developing a photovoltaic coating that simultaneously satisfies manufacturability, application suitability, and ultrahigh reflectivity remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we developed a novel Bi 2 O 3 –B 2 O 3 –ZnO–SiO 2 system glass formulated as photovoltaic ink for preparing a highly reflective coating. The glass components were designed and optimized via exploring the crystallinity and transmittance characteristics, yielding a 4%–5% increase in the reflectance of the coating. Furthermore, this study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms governing the influence of several key factors—including glass fluidity, coating thickness, titanium dioxide content, and particle morphology—on coating reflectance. Through systematic optimization of coating composition and microstructure, an exceptional reflectance of 92.41% was achieved. These research findings represent a significant advance in the performance of highly reflective coatings and provide design principles for reflective composites in energy applications.