Work

Mechanical strength evaluation of curved surface and large-area crystalline silicon solar cell modules without encapsulant and cover glass

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We fabricated encapsulant-less, curved, large-area crystalline silicon (c-Si) photovoltaic (PV) modules using a polycarbonate (PC) base and front cover. To investigate their mechanical strength against static loads and impact durability, we conducted sandbag load tests and hail impact tests. The PC front cover demonstrated excellent durability against loads and impacts due to its high elastic modulus and impact resistance. In the sandbag load test, the front cover did not undergo plastic deformation even under prolonged loading, and we observed no damage caused by contact between the front cover and the solar cells. Furthermore, in the hail impact test, there was no damage to the solar cells nor scratches on the front cover due to the hail impact, suggesting that the PC front cover can serve as an alternative to conventional cover glass. These results confirm that encapsulant-less, curved, large-area c-Si PV modules possess sufficient mechanical strength comparable to conventional modules.

Source: Japanese Journal of Applied Physics

DOI: 10.35848/1347-4065/add168

Authors: Mitsunori Nagahara, Huynh Thi Cam Tu, Keisuke Ohdaira

Institution: Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Silicon and Solar Cell Technologies

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,210