Issue 39/2012 - WACKER encapsulant films effectively suppress the PID effect of solar cells

WACKER encapsulant films effectively suppress the PID effect of solar cells

WACKER commissioned the Berlin Photovoltaic Association to test
solar modules encapsulated with its silicone elastomer TECTOSIL.
The results show that the solar modules in this package do not experience leakage caused by potential-induced attenuation (PID) effect, so as to avoid unnecessary power loss
in solar cells.

The PID effect is caused
by unnecessary leakage on the surface of the battery.
Typically, negatively charged carriers flow into the back electrodes of the battery, and leakage causes them to leak out through the glass and component frame, causing waste
.
Moisture infiltration and increased voltage of battery components will accelerate the leakage of negative charge carriers, resulting in significant
loss of battery performance.
However, the PID effect is reversible and can be effectively controlled
by technical means.

According to IEC60904-1, solar modules in TECTOSIL packages are tested
at a system voltage of 1000 volts.
Unlike other solar modules that are tested at the same time and partially produce PID effects, solar modules packaged in TECTOSIL do not incur power loss
due to PID.
Neither the voltage characteristics nor the subsequent electroluminescence (EL) analysis showed any signs
of PID in the modules using WACKER encapsulant films.

TECTOSIL is a flexible adhesive film made of silicone copolymer with extremely high transparency and electrical insulation, which can combine the components of photovoltaic cells into a stable layer pressing part
.
As a result, encapsulated solar cells are optimally protected
against mechanical and chemical stress.
(Charlotte)