Apr 24 2010
In the drive for more cost-effective solar energy, DuPont and Oerlikon Solar have collaborated on a new, ultra-thin white reflective solar photovoltaic encapsulant sheet that is part of the DuPont™ PV5200 Series.
The new DuPont™ PV5223 white reflective polyvinyl butyral (PVB) encapsulant enables easier manufacturing of next-generation thin film photovoltaic modules that not only capture sunlight coming in, but also reflect more sunlight back through the module -- delivering more power.
Encapsulants are among the most important materials to solar module manufacturers for high volume module sealing and integration. Choosing or creating the right material not only speeds module production, but can significantly improve long-term power output and module durability.
"In the rapidly evolving and growing solar power market, equipment and materials leaders often innovate faster and more effectively by increasing collaboration,” said Steve Cluff, global business director – DuPont Photovoltaic Encapsulants. “DuPont’s market-driven science is supporting the solar industry's race for lower cost per watt. DuPont values the partnership with Oerlikon Solar as we both view encapsulant technology playing an increasingly multi-functional role in next-generation photovoltaic modules."
Designed for use with Oerlikon Solar’s Micromorph® technology, DuPont™ PV5223 white reflective PVB encapsulant sheet increases light reflectivity by more than 50 percent versus paint, to an almost perfect 94 percent reflectivity. The new ultra-thin (0.45mm) encapsulant also is more than 40 percent lighter in weight than traditional 0.76mm PVB encapsulants.
"The PV5200 Series enables more power from our modules, lower material use, a smaller environmental footprint and easier lamination. It all adds up to a bright outlook for our module manufacturing customers," said Ivan Sinicco, senior manager, Module Development – Oerlikon Solar.
DuPont worked closely with Oerlikon Solar research and testing labs to optimize the new encapsulant sheet for solar module durability and ease of manufacturing. Tests indicate DuPont™ PV5223 delivers stronger adhesion than clear PVB sheet materials, which translates into tougher, longer-life modules.
Oerlikon Solar designs and manufactures field-proven equipment and end-to-end manufacturing lines for the mass production of thin film silicon solar modules.
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