Photovoltaic module performance in the marine environment 1978-1983

Conference · Tue May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1984 · Conf. Rec. IEEE Photovoltaic Spec. Conf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6025895

Winslow, T S; Tenchard, S E

Since 1978, the U.S. Coast Guard has conducted real time field tests of photovoltaic modules in the marine environment. One hundred and seventy test modules of seventeen module types were deployed at each of two outdoor marine test sites: Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Groton, Connecticut. The electrical output of each module was measured semiannually, and all were tested for electrical isolation in 1983. Most module types exhibited significant changes, including photochemical degradation and mechanical failures (delamination, glass breakage, and cracked cells) after fives years of exposure. Test module characteristics are given, performance in I-V curve and electrical isolation tests is discussed, and modes of failure are revealed. Problems encountered during operation and maintenance in the marine environment are discussed.

• Research Organization: Coast Guard R and D Center, Avery Point, Groton, Connecticut
• OSTI ID: 6025895
• Report Number(s): CONF-840561-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: Conf. Rec. IEEE Photovoltaic Spec. Conf.; (United States)
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140501* -- Solar Energy Conversion-- Photovoltaic Conversion
CHEMICAL REACTIONS
CHEMISTRY
COASTAL REGIONS
DECOMPOSITION
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES
ENVIRONMENT
EQUIPMENT
FAILURE MODE ANALYSIS
FIELD TESTS
GLASS
LEAKS
MAINTENANCE
MECHANICS
OPERATION
PERFORMANCE TESTING
PHOTOCHEMISTRY
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SYSTEM FAILURE ANALYSIS
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS
TESTING
UNDERWATER OPERATIONS