1st Edition
Solar Module Packaging Polymeric Requirements and Selection
Introduction to Polymers
A Brief Historical Perspective
Chemical Structure, Nomenclature, and Morphology
Polymeric Classification Based on Thermal and Mechanical Properties
Certification and Characterization of Photovoltaic Packaging
Overview of Photovoltaic Installations
Selection Requirements for Photovoltaic Packaging
Optical Properties
Thermal Properties
Mechanical Properties
Electrical Properties
Flammability
Weathering Stability
Polymer Specifications for Photovoltaic Packaging and Balance of System Components
Commercial Formulations
The Effect of Additives on Polymeric Properties
Common Failure Mechanisms in Photovoltaic Packaging
Encapsulants
Frames
Junction Boxes
Backsheets
Polymer Processing Techniques Used in Photovoltaic Packaging and Balance of Systems Component Fabrication
Common Polymer Processes for Photovoltaic Packaging and BOS Components
Polymer Viscosity
Lamination
Injection Molding
Adhesive Dispense
Economic Theory and Photovoltaic Packaging
The First U.S. Energy Crisis
The Current Energy Crisis
Technology Development Theory and Photovoltaic Energy
Operational Optimization for Photovoltaic Companies
Photovoltaic Markets Abroad
The U.S. Polymer Market
Other Polymeric Applications in Photovoltaic Modules
Emerging Polymeric Applications
Concentrated and Organic Photovoltaics
Appendix A: Conversion Factors and Common Units of Measurement
Appendix B: Glossary
Biography
Dr. Michelle Poliskie is a Process Engineer at Solyndra, Inc. in California.
Excellent, targeted material encompassing packaging in the PV industry, manufacturing and state of industry, economic trends and a global framework for state of the science and state of the industry niche for solar cells and products.
—Karen Rayment, MSEE, P.E., Licensed Professional Engineer, State of California, USAGiven there are no other books written on this subject matter, this publication is needed in the industry … . There is continual pressure on the solar industry to reduce cost and, like the electronics industry before it, solar companies will continue to integrate low cost polymers to reduce their costs. This expected focus for product integration makes this a timely publication in the industry. … I thank Dr. Poliskie for putting this information together for the solar community; there is a strong need for this desk reference.
—Todd J. Menna, Ph.D., Packer Engineering, Inc., Naperville, Illinois, USA
