Continuous edge protected barrier assemblies

Abstract

This disclosure generally relates to films capable of use in a flexible photovoltaic solar module, rolls of films capable of use in a flexible photovoltaic solar module, processes of making the films and rolls of films, to flexible photovoltaic solar modules including such films, and to methods of making flexible solar modules. One exemplary process involves providing at least two discrete segments of a multilayer barrier film and placing a segment of protective layer adjacent to two of the adjacent discrete segments of multilayer barrier film such that the first and second terminal edges of the segment of protective layer span the gap between the discrete segments of barrier film to form a continuous film.

Description

technical field [0001] The present disclosure relates generally to films that can be used in flexible photovoltaic solar cell assemblies, rolls of film that can be used in flexible photovoltaic solar cell assemblies, methods of making the films and rolls of film, and to flexible photovoltaic solar cells comprising such films components. Background technique [0002] Emerging solar technologies such as organic photovoltaics (OPV) and thin film solar cells such as copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) need protection from water vapor and need to be durable in outdoor environments (e.g. to ultraviolet (UV) light) . Glass has generally been used as an encapsulation material for such solar devices because glass is a very good water vapor barrier, optically transparent and stable to UV light. But glass is heavy, brittle, difficult to make flexible and difficult to handle. Attention has been paid to developing transparent flexible encapsulation materials to replace glass, whic...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

But glass is heavy, brittle, difficult to make flexible and difficult to handle

Images