Author

Contributions

  • Dameron, Arrelaine - Contributor
  • Reese, Matthew - Contributor
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory (U.S.) - Contributor
  • United States. Department of Energy - Contributor
  • United States. Department of Energy. Office of Scientific and Technical Information - Contributor
and 1 more
  • Photovoltaic Module Reliability Workshop (2011 : Golden, Colo.) - Contributor

Publication

2011 - National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colo., Colorado

Language

English

Word Count

5,250 words, Guess

Page Count

21 pages

Physical Format

Electronic resource

Identifiers

Description

Because of the sensitivity of some photovoltaic devices to moisture-induced corrosion, they are packaged using impermeable front- and back-sheets with an edge seal to prevent moisture ingress. Evaluation of edge seal materials can be difficult because of the low permeation rates involved and/or non-Fickian behavior. Here, using a Ca film deposited on a glass substrate, we demonstrate the evaluation of edge seal materials in a manner that effectively duplicates their use in a photovoltaic application and compare the results with standard methods for measuring water vapor transport. We demonstrate how moisture permeation data from polymer films can be used to estimate moisture ingress rates and compare the results of these two methods. Encapsulant materials were also evaluated for comparison and to highlight the need for edge seals. Of the materials studied, dessicant-filled polyisobutene materials demonstrate by far the best potential to keep moisture out for a 20 to 30 year lifetime.

Subjects

Series Statement

  • NREL/PR -- 5200-50839

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