Cuce, Pinar MertAbay, GokhanCuce, ErdemGuclu, TamerAlvur, Emre2026-09-012026-09-0120261359-43111873-5606http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2026.132501https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12403/8533This study investigates the potential of Sphagnum palustre moss as a completely natural, passive evaporative cooling medium for photovoltaic (PV) modules. Unlike synthetic hydrogels or complex biomimetic structures, the proposed system utilises the innate porous structure and high water-retention capacity (up to 20 times its dry weight) of natural moss to facilitate rapid heat dissipation. Experimental evaluations conducted under effective solar irradiances of 510.4-820.9 W/m2 demonstrate that the moss-cooled configuration achieves a remarkable temperature reduction of 27.4-39.8 degrees C compared to uncooled standalone panels. These thermal improvements translate into relative power gains of 6.10% to 11.66% and an exceptional evaporative cooling power of up to 598 W/m2. The results establish Sphagnum palustre as a highly effective, biodegradable, and low-cost alternative for PV thermal management, offering performance competitive with advanced engineered cooling materials whilst ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessBio-Inspired CoolingEvaporative CoolingPassive Thermal ManagementPhotovoltaic (Pv)Sphagnum Palustre MossPv Module Temperature ReductionArticle30310.1016/j.applthermaleng.2026.132501WOS:001835582800001Q1