A Comparison of Emerging and Industry Benchmark Photovoltaic Backsheets Between Different Outdoor Locations
Recent interest within the photovoltaic (PV) module industry is largely directed toward enhanced lifetimes in the field, balanced with improved recyclability. Traditionally, fluoropolymer-based backsheets have been used, however, are difficult to recycle. Emerging polyolefin (PO)-based backsheets are more recyclable and can be formulated to be robust. Properties of different fluoropolymer- and non-fluoropolymer-based backsheet coupons and in encapsulated silicon mini modules that have been fielded in Albuquerque, NM and Cocoa, FL are reported here. Seven backsheets were examined: two novel PO's, TPT, APO, PPE, AAA, and KPf. Methods of examination include module electrical performance (I - V flash test), surface morphology (optical microscope and gloss), polymer chemical structure (FTIR), EL imaging, mechanical tensile testing, DC breakdown voltage, DSC (phase transitions), and optical performance (reflectance spectra).
- Research Organization:
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC36-08GO28308
- OSTI ID:
- 2309713
- Report Number(s):
- NREL/CP-5K00-88887; MainId:89666; UUID:4ef4be56-17fd-4ed8-b692-2a3e769d0206; MainAdminId:71883
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Presented at the 2023 IEEE 50th Photovoltaic Specialists Conference (PVSC), 11-16 June 2023, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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