Real Time Outdoor Exposure Testing of Solar Cell Modules and Component Materials

摘要

Plastic samples, solar cell modules and sub-modules have been exposed at test sites in Florida, Arizona, Puerto Rico and Cleveland, Ohio, in order to determine materials suitable for use in solar cell modules with a proposed 20-year lifetime. Various environments have been encountered including sub-tropical, sub-tropical with a sea air atmosphere, desert, rain forest, normal urban, and urban-polluted. The samples have been exposed for periods up to six months. Materials found not suitable were polyurethane, polyester, Kapton, Mylar and UV-stabilized Lexan. Suitable materials were acrylic, FEP-A and glass. The results of exposure of polyvinylidene fluoride were dependent on the specific formulation but several types appear suitable. RTV silicone rubber (clear) appears to pick up and hold dirt both as a free film and as a potting medium for modules. The results indicate that dirt accumulation and cleanability are important factors in the selection of solar cell module covers and encapsulants. (ERA citation 02:056042)