For the uneven PV temperature distribution problem in the concentrated photovoltaic-ionic thermocells hybrid system (CPV-LiTC)

a LiTC with tapered channels is proposed to enhance the local heat transfer coefficient at the channel end

optimize the PV temperature uniformity

and improve the electrical performance and operating life of the CPV-LiTC hybrid system

aiming to achieve efficient thermal management of PV and cascade utilization of low-grade waste heat. Based on the finite element method

this paper establishes a three-dimensional numerical calculation model to systematically investigate the effects of the channel structure and electrolyte flow direction on its temperature uniformity and electrical performance. Results show that compared with the rectangular channels

the average temperature and its standard deviation of PV are reduced from 326.7 K and 3.41 to 323.8 K and 0.73

respectively. When the area ratio of channel inlet and outlet is 3:2 under cross-counterflow case

and its entire electrical efficiency can be up to 19.47%

confirming that the tapered channel structure can effectively improve the temperature uniformity of PV cell and the electrical performance of the hybrid system

providing the theoretical basis and technical reserves for the large-scale practical application of CPV-LiTC hybrid system.