Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1942/37562
Title: Development and testing of light-weight PV modules based on glass-fibre reinforcement
Authors: GOVAERTS, Jonathan 
LUO, Bin 
BORGERS, Tom 
VAN DYCK, Rik 
VAN DER HEIDE, Arvid 
TOUS, Loic 
Morlier, Arnaud
Lisco, Fabiana
Cerasti, Lorenzo
Galiazzo, Marco
POORTMANS, Jef 
Editors: Kenny, Robert
Serra, João M.
Issue Date: 2022
Publisher: EDP SCIENCES S A
Source: EPJ Photovoltaics, 13 (Art N° 13)
Abstract: In this paper we report on our approach on integrating c-Si PV into lightweight structures, in particular towards vehicle integration. To this end we want to get rid of the (bulk weight of the) glass but seek a suitable replacement in terms of mechanical stability. First we elaborate on the most basic standards and norms that VIPV products should relate to in terms of (thermo-)mechanical testing. Then, for the experimental part, 2 concepts are investigated. In a first approach, we reinforced the encapsulant with glass fibre material, while in a second one we applied a dedicated glass-fibre-reinforced sheet as a replacement of the backsheet. In both cases we stay as close as possible to using commercially available material. For each approach we elaborate the testing that has been carried out: thermal cycling, vibrations, mechanical shock and hail impact. On a final note, we point out some initial damp heat testing results, that are a particular challenge for light-weight modules without glass.
Notes: Govaerts, J (corresponding author), IMEC, Energyville, Thorpk 8320, B-3600 Genk, Belgium.
Jonathan.Govaerts@imec.be
Keywords: VIP;Vlight-weight materials;fibre reinforcement
Document URI: http://hdl.handle.net/1942/37562
ISSN: 2105-0716
e-ISSN: 2105-0716
DOI: 10.1051/epjpv/2022007
ISI #: WOS:000800334700001
Rights: J. Govaerts et al., Published by EDP Sciences, 2022 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Category: A1
Type: Journal Contribution
Appears in Collections:Research publications

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