ABSTRACT

The encapsulation of solar cells in PV modules has several important functions. 80% of PVpower-module producer use laminated film material. Current developments led to promising improvements of the main properties of film materials. A new system of encapsulation without glass – transparent film materials and rigid plates - has been investigated. The main characteristics and requirements on the encapsulant are adhesion to encapsulating EVA, layer-layer adhesion, poor heat shrinkage, optimal damp heat durability, UV resistance, high light transmission rate, good module laminating processability, long term stability in different climates, surface characteristics, low water vapour permeability, module stability and low costs. To achieve all these goals, it is important to have high quality solar cells and also high quality encapsulating components. Results concerning technology and new encapsulation materials are presented here.