Sealing laminated window unit

Abstract

A seal for closing an edge of a laminated structure is provided. The seal may include a polymeric base layer, a foil layer, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells disposed on the foil layer. The seal may be adhered to an edge of a laminate having a luminescent solar concentrator for harvesting energy from light. The laminate may be a glass laminate and may be part of a window unit.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 412,129, filed on September 30, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present description generally relates to sealants for sealing edges of laminated materials and structures, such as photovoltaic laminate structures, including laminated glazing and laminated windows having photovoltaic characteristics. Background Art

[0004] Laminated window structures for vehicles and buildings can include glass and / or polymer layers bonded together. For example, a typical laminated window can be made of two or more glass sheets or panes fused together with a polymer layer or coating between them. One of the benefits of such laminated windows is that they do not shatter like ordinary tempered glass window units when broken. This is why laminated glass is sometimes called safety glass. In addition, the space between the panes can also act as an insulating layer. Therefore, laminated windows have better thermal insulation properties than traditional single-layer windows, while also having good acoustic properties.

[0005] These laminated window structures can include functional features, such as photovoltaic features. Photovoltaic features enable windows, skylights, etc. to collect energy from the sun. There is a growing trend to improve the overall energy efficiency of vehicles and buildings using technologies such as photovoltaics. Luminescent solar concentrators ("LSCs") can be incorporated into laminated materials and structures, such as into laminated glass windows, to capture energy from the sun. For example, semiconductor nanoparticles such as quantum dots can be incorporated into laminated window structures. The quantum dots direct light energy to photovoltaic cells for conversion into electrical energy.

[0006] Exposure to moisture can cause delamination and other adverse effects in laminated products. Therefore, seals can be used along the edges of laminated glass products to prevent moisture from affecting the adhesion of the glass and / or polymer layers. Such seals are also ideal for protecting laminated products of window units incorporating photovoltaic energy harvesting features from moisture and contamination, which can also negatively impact the performance of the photovoltaic energy harvesting features. Summary of the invention

[0007] A seal for enclosing the edge of a laminate structure is described herein. The seal may include a polymer base layer, a foil layer, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged on the foil layer. The seal may be adhered to the edge of a laminate having a luminescent solar concentrator for collecting energy from light. The laminate may be a glass laminate and may be part of a window unit.

[0008] According to one aspect, a seal for enclosing the edge of a laminated structure is provided. The seal may include a polymer base, a foil layer adjacent to the polymer base, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged on the foil layer. The foil layer may be on the polymer base. In some embodiments, the polymer base may be a dark polymer material. A carrier layer may be attached to the polymer base. In some embodiments, the carrier layer may be embossed. The polymer base may include polyurethane.

[0009] In some embodiments, the foil layer can include a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, titanium, polyimide and metallized plastic. The foil layer can include a first face and a second face relative to the foil layer. In some embodiments, the seal can include an adhesive coating that can be disposed on one or both sides of the foil layer. The adhesive coating can include a transparent polymer adhesive layer. For example, the transparent adhesive layer can include a thermoplastic polyurethane layer.

[0010] In some embodiments, the photovoltaic cells may each include a first electrode, an alloy layer, and a second electrode. In certain embodiments, the alloy layer may include copper (Cu), indium (In), and gallium (Ga). In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include sulfur (S). In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include selenium (Se).

[0011] In some embodiments, the alloy layer can be printed on the foil layer. In some cases, the alloy layer can be printed after forming the first electrode. In certain embodiments, the alloy layer can include a metal such as silver, gold, aluminum, thallium, or tellurium.

[0012] In some embodiments, one or both of the electrodes may be opaque. In some embodiments, at least one electrode may be transparent. For example, one of the first electrode or the second electrode may be transparent (in which case the other of the two electrodes is opaque), or both the first electrode and the second electrode may be transparent.

[0013] In another aspect, a laminate may be provided. The laminate may have an edge and a seal disposed on the edge, the seal comprising a polymer base layer, a foil layer adjacent to the polymer base layer, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells disposed on the foil layer. In some embodiments, the foil layer may be on the polymer base layer, and the seal may be adhered to the edge.

[0014] The laminate may be a functional laminate. In some embodiments, the laminate may include a functional layer in which a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") is disposed. The LSC may be a quantum dot. In some embodiments, each quantum dot has a core and a shell. For example, each quantum dot may have a CuIS core and a ZnS shell. The quantum dot may be configured to re-emit energy, such as from absorbed radiation, to or transmit it to a photovoltaic cell in the seal.

[0015] In some embodiments, the laminate may also include an electrochromic component. In some embodiments, the laminate may include an infrared absorbing layer. In some embodiments, the laminate may include an infrared reflecting layer. In some embodiments, the laminate may include an electromagnetic shielding layer. In some embodiments, the laminate may include an impact resistant layer. In some embodiments, the laminate may include a bulletproof layer.

[0016] In some embodiments, the laminate may include a layer selected from the group consisting of a structural polyvinyl butyral ("PVB") or ionomer layer, an optical grade ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer ("EVA") interlayer, an acoustic grade PVB interlayer, and a solar control PVB, TPU or ionomer interlayer.

[0017] In another aspect, a method of sealing the edge of a laminate is provided. The method may include: forming a base layer on a carrier layer; attaching a foil layer to the base layer to form a seal; printing a plurality of photovoltaic cells on the foil layer; and adhering the seal to the edge of the laminate. The laminate may include a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC"). The LSC may be a quantum dot. The quantum dot may have a core and a shell. For example, the quantum dot may have a copper iodine sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell.

[0018] In some embodiments, the step of printing a plurality of photovoltaic cells may include forming a first electrode, forming an alloy layer, and forming a second electrode. In some embodiments, the laminate may include at least one or more than one pane comprising glass or polycarbonate.

[0019] In certain embodiments, a thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") layer may be formed on the foil layer. The step of adhering the seal to the edge of the laminate may include heating the TPU. In some embodiments, the base layer comprises a dark polymer material.

[0020] In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga"). In certain embodiments, the alloy layer may include sulfur ("S"). In certain embodiments, the alloy layer may include selenium ("Se").

[0021] In another aspect, a method of forming a seal for a laminate is provided. The method may include forming a plurality of photovoltaic cells on a foil layer, forming a base layer on the foil layer, and forming an adhesive layer on a side of the foil layer opposite the base layer.

[0022] The photovoltaic cell may be formed by printing the photovoltaic cell on the foil layer.Printing the plurality of photovoltaic cells may include forming a first electrode, forming an alloy layer, and forming a second electrode.

[0023] In some embodiments, the base layer may be a dark polymer material. In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga"). In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include sulfur ("S"). In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include selenium ("Se").

[0024] In some embodiments, the base layer may be formed by casting the base layer on the side of the foil layer opposite the photovoltaic cells. In certain embodiments, the adhesive layer may be formed by casting a transparent aliphatic adhesive on the side of the foil layer opposite the base layer.

[0025] When in use, the seal may be cut or split into required or desired widths.

[0026] In yet another aspect, a method of sealing the edge of a laminate is provided. The method may include: providing a stack of layers to form a laminate, at least one of the layers having a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") and another of the layers comprising a rigid window sheet; and wrapping the edge of the stack with a sealant having a photovoltaic cell and an adhesive layer in the sealant.

[0027] In some embodiments, the laminate may include at least one window comprising glass or polycarbonate. The luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") may be a quantum dot. In some embodiments, the quantum dots may each have a core and a shell. In certain embodiments, the quantum dots may each have a copper iodine sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell.

[0028] In some embodiments, wires may be soldered or otherwise attached to form an electrical connection to the photovoltaic cell.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the method may further include autoclaving the stack.Autoclaving may laminate the layers in the stack and adhere the seal to the edges.

[0030] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are only exemplary and illustrative, rather than restrictive, for the present disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will be partially described in the subsequent description, or may be understood by practicing the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain certain principles.

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a seal for an edge of a laminate structure according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0033] Figure 1A yes Figure 1 A magnified view of the foil layer and photovoltaic cell of the seal;

[0034] Figure 2 Is on the edge Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a laminated structure of a seal;

[0035] Figure 3 Is on the edge of the laminated structure Figure 1 a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a laminated window unit having a seal; and

[0036] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an electrochromic assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] This specification and the accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments, and should not be considered as restrictive, and the claims define the scope of the present disclosure, including equivalents. Without departing from the spirit and scope of this specification and the claims (including equivalents), various mechanical, composition, structural and operational changes can be made. In some cases, well-known structures and technologies are not shown or described in detail, so as not to confuse the present disclosure. The same numbers in two or more drawings represent the same or similar elements. In addition, as long as feasible, the elements and related aspects described in detail with reference to an embodiment can be included in other embodiments that do not specifically show or describe the elements. For example, if an element is described in detail with reference to an embodiment but is not described with reference to a second embodiment, it can still be claimed that the element is included in the second embodiment. In addition, the description herein is only for illustrative purposes and does not necessarily reflect the actual shape, size or size of the system or the components shown.

[0038] It should be noted that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the," as well as any singular use of any word as used in this specification and the appended claims, include plural referents unless expressly and unequivocally limited to one referent. The term "include," and its grammatical variations as used herein, are intended to be non-limiting, such that the recitation of items in a list does not exclude other like items that can be substituted or added to the listed items.

[0039] Figure 1 A seal 100 for the edge of a laminated structure according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The seal 100 may have a carrier layer 101. In some exemplary embodiments, the carrier layer 101 may be a transparent material and may be embossed into a pattern as desired. A base layer 102 may be arranged on the carrier layer 101, the base layer 102 comprising a black or dark polymer film or coating, such as polyurethane. When the carrier layer 101 and the base layer 102 are attached to each other, the carrier layer 101 may impart a pattern to the base layer 102 during embossing to achieve aesthetic purposes. In some embodiments, the base layer 102 may buffer the edge of the laminated structure. A foil layer 105 may be arranged on the base layer 102 for moisture and solvent resistance and to protect the laminated structure from contamination. An adhesive layer 104 consisting of a polymer adhesive may be provided to cover the foil layer 105 and to adhere the seal 100 to the edge of the laminated structure, and in one embodiment, the polymer adhesive may be a transparent thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"). When the seal is adhered to the edge of the laminate structure, the carrier layer 101 may be removed and discarded.

[0040] In some exemplary embodiments, the seal 100 may also include functional properties, such as photovoltaic properties. For example, the seal 100 may include a plurality of photovoltaic cells 103 for converting light energy into electrical energy. Figure 1A As shown in more detail in FIG. 1 , the photovoltaic cell 103 may be arranged in Figure 1 The seal 100 is formed on the foil layer 105 of the seal 100. In some embodiments, the photovoltaic cell 103 can be formed on the foil layer 105, and then the foil layer 105 is applied to the base layer 102. In some embodiments, the foil layer 105, the base layer 102 and the carrier layer 101 can be heat-pressed to form the seal 100, and then the photovoltaic cell 103 can be formed on the foil layer 105. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 104 can be extruded onto the foil layer 105 using a flat die. In other examples, a transparent polymer layer can be coated, cast, sprayed or otherwise formed on the foil layer 105.

[0041] In some embodiments, the foil layer 105 can be an aluminum foil, and the photovoltaic cell 103 can be formed by printing or coating the foil layer 105 with an alloy layer. The alloy layer can, for example, contain a mixture of copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga"). In certain embodiments, Cu, In, Ga, and sulfur ("S") or selenium ("Se") can be printed or coated on the foil layer 105. The photovoltaic cell 103 can be formed by a first electrode, an alloy layer, and a transparent electrode to constitute a cell so that the cell can convert energy absorbed from light into electrical energy. In some embodiments, a plurality of photovoltaic cells 103 can be formed on the foil layer 105 into one or more rows, clusters, or arrays or patterns, such as predetermined geometric patterns.

[0042] In some embodiments, the alloy layer may include a combination of Cu, silver ("Ag"), gold ("Au"), Ga, In, aluminum ("Al"), thallium ("Ti"), Se, S, and / or tellurium ("Te"). For example, the alloy may be printed on the foil layer 105 using equipment similar to a printing press. The foil layer 105 may be provided in a roll and printed with the alloy. Other types of photovoltaic cells 103 may be formed on the foil layer 105 by coating, printing, or spraying.

[0043] In certain embodiments, seal 100 may not have polymer adhesive layer 104, and instead other materials may be used to adhere the seal to the edges of the laminate.

[0044] In some embodiments, foil layer 105 can be titanium, a polymer such as polyimide, or a metallized plastic. In an embodiment, the first electrode can be conductive stainless steel or molybdenum. In an embodiment, the second electrode can be a transparent electrode, such as a transparent conductive film. In certain embodiments, at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode can be made of a transparent conductive film. Transparent conductive films are used in various electronic devices, such as photovoltaic devices, touch screens, and displays. An example is indium tin oxide ("ITO"), which is commonly used in electronic devices. Other conductive films include transparent conductive oxides ("TCO"), conductive polymers, metal meshes, carbon nanotubes ("CNT"), graphene, nanowires, and ultrathin metal films.

[0045] In some embodiments, one or more transparent electrodes may include carbon nanotubes. In certain embodiments, the transparent electrodes may be made of nanotube hybrid materials that combine carbon nanotubes with other elements such as carbon, graphite, silver, or copper.

[0046] In some embodiments, photovoltaic cell 103 may be a silicon photovoltaic cell, an organic solar cell, or another type of photovoltaic cell.

[0047] In some embodiments, adhesive layer 104 can be a sealant layer, such as one or more layers of polyethylene terephthalate ("PET"), ethylene vinyl acetate ("EVA"), or other polymers.

[0048] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a laminate 305 for a window unit is shown. The laminate 305 can have functional properties and thus can include a photovoltaic layer 300 that redirects incident radiation, or more specifically, incident solar radiation. The photovoltaic layer 300 can be a polymer material having a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") 310 disposed therein. In some embodiments, the polymer material can be a thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer ("EVA"), plasticized polyvinyl butyral, or polymethyl methacrylate ("PMMA"). The polymer material can be extruded by single screw or twin screw extrusion, cast, coated, UV cured, or otherwise formed. It should be understood that the LSC 310 is not visible (in the Figure 2 , LSC is schematically shown). For example, layer 300 may have quantum dots that, due to their size and structure, can absorb a portion of the incident solar radiation and re-emit it in the emission band with a large Stokes shift. The re-emitted emission can be collected by photovoltaic cells 103 in seal 100 located on the edge of laminate 305. In some embodiments, seal 100 can be applied on the long sides of laminate 305.

[0049] The photovoltaic layer 300 may have a polymeric binder material extruded or otherwise formed thereon, preferably formed on both major faces of the photovoltaic layer 300. For example, Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, a first transparent TPU layer 301 and a second transparent TPU layer 302 may be disposed on the photovoltaic layer 300. The subassembly may be laminated with a rigid window sheet of glass or polymer in an autoclave process or in a non-autoclave process. Figure 2 In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the laminate 305 can have a first window sheet 201 and a second window sheet 202. One or more edges 306 of the laminate 305 can have a seal 100 applied thereto to protect the laminate 305 from moisture or other contaminants, as the application of heat or heat and pressure activates the adhesive TPU 301, 302. In another embodiment (not shown), the photovoltaic layer 300 itself can serve as an adhesive interlayer that bonds the first rigid window sheet 201 and the second rigid window sheet 202, thereby eliminating the need for separate adhesive layers 301 and 302.

[0050] In some embodiments, the solar concentrator 310 of the laminate 305 can be a luminophore that absorbs a majority of near infrared ("NIR") or ultraviolet ("UV") photons and re-emits with a Stokes shift greater than 200 nanometers.

[0051] In one embodiment, the highest performance LSC 310 may utilize a mixture of phosphorescent organic molecules or multiple fluorophores (eg, quantum dots or organic dyes), which act to reduce reabsorption losses and increase the overall absorption efficiency across the spectrum.

[0052] In some embodiments, the luminophore may have a structure selected from MX2L2, AMX2L2, M6X12L2, A2M6X14, and A2M6X14.L2, wherein M = W or Mo, X = Cl, Br, or I, L = Cl, CH3CN, benzenethiol, ethanethiol, H2O (hydrate), HCl, and acetonitrile, and A = K, Na, tetrabutylammonium ("TBA"), and other ammonium salts. Other structures are also contemplated.

[0053] In other embodiments, the plurality of luminophores may include quantum dots having a core / shell structure. For example, the core / shell structure may be: CdSe / CdS, CdSe / ZnSe, CdSe / ZnS, CdSe / ZnTe, CdSe / CdTe, CdTe / CdSe, CdTe / CdS, CdTe / ZnSe, CdTe / ZnS, CdTe / ZnTe, CdS / ZnSe, CdS / CdTe, CdS / CdSe, PbSe / PbS, PbS / PbSe, PbTe / PbS, PbS / PbTe, PbTe / PbSe, PbSe / PbTe ...S, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbTe, PbSe / PbS, PbSe / Pb bSe / CdSe, CdSe / PbTe, PbS / CdS, CdS / PbS, PbTe / CdTe, CdTe / PbTe, InAs / CdS, InSb / CdS, InP / CdS, InAs / CdSe, InSb / CdSe , InP / CdSe, InAs / ZnSe, InP / ZnSe, InSb / ZnSe, InAs / ZnS, InP / ZnS, InSb / ZnS, Ge / Si, Si / Ge, Sn / Si, Si / Sn, Ge / Sn or Sn / Ge.

[0054] In some embodiments, laminate 305 can have low haze and high visible light transmittance suitable for use in windows. For example, the haze can be less than 7% (measured according to ASTM D1003). In other examples, the haze can be less than 3%, and, in other examples, the haze can be less than 1%. In some embodiments, the visible light transmittance can be greater than 30% (measured according to ASTM D1003). In other examples, the visible light transmittance can be greater than 50%, and in other examples, the visible light transmittance can be greater than 70%.

[0055] Suitable quantum dots may be those having a copper iodide sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell. Other quantum dots are also contemplated, including hybrid quantum dots. In some embodiments, laminate 305 may have an edge 306, and seal 100 may be adhered to edge 306 of laminate 305, such as Figure 2 shown.

[0056] An exemplary method of forming a seal for a laminate may include: printing a plurality of photovoltaic ("PV") cells on a foil layer; casting a base layer on the non-PV side of the foil; casting a transparent aliphatic adhesive layer on the PV side of the foil; and cutting or slicing the film into required or desired widths.

[0057] The steps involved in preparing the seal can be performed by a manufacturer and providing the seal to a laminator. The laminator can apply the seal to the laminate, or, in some embodiments, apply the seal to the stack and laminate the stack while also adhering the seal. An exemplary method of sealing the edges of a laminate having photovoltaic functionality as described herein can include: wrapping one or more edges with a seal; welding wires (or otherwise forming and / or attaching wires) to provide electrical connections to photovoltaic cells in the seal; and subjecting the assembly to heat and pressure treatment to bond the layers of the laminate and also bonding the seal to one or more edges of the laminate.

[0058] exist Figure 3 An exemplary embodiment of a window unit 602 is shown in FIG. The window unit 602 includes a laminate 610 disposed in a frame 612, one or more edges of the laminate 610 being protected by one or more seals 100, and having a photovoltaic cell therein. In some embodiments, the laminate 610 of the window unit 602 can be similar to that described above in conjunction with Figure 2The laminate 305 discussed. It is contemplated that in this embodiment, the foil layer 105 of the applied seal 100 can serve both as a moisture barrier for the window unit 602 and as a base foil for forming a photovoltaic cell. The LSC 310, such as semiconductor nanoparticles, in the photovoltaic layer 300 are capable of directing energy captured from light to the photovoltaic cells 103 in the seal 100. This avoids the need to provide seals for the edges of the laminate and to separately add photovoltaic cells to the assembly. In certain embodiments, the photovoltaic cells can be electrically connected to one or more wires, traces, bus bars, etc. to deliver the generated electrical energy to a battery, electrical device, etc.

[0059] In some embodiments, the laminate 305 for the window unit 602 may include one or more layers selected from the group consisting of a bulletproof layer, an impact resistant layer, an electromagnetic shielding layer, an infrared absorbing layer, an infrared reflecting layer, and an electrochromic component. For example, such layers may include:

[0060] 1) a standard polyvinyl butyral ("PVB") interlayer containing 38 phr of triethylene glycol bis(2-ethylhexanoate) plasticizer;

[0061] 2) Acoustic grade PVB interlayer, such as Eastman Saflex Q- Eastman Saflex E- Seksisui S- and Kuraray Acoustic-grade

[0062] 3) Solar control PVB, TPU or ionomer interlayers to reduce heat gain;

[0063] 4) a structural PVB interlayer containing 20 phr triethylene glycol bis(2-ethylhexanoate);

[0064] 5) structured ionomers, such as Kuraray's SentryGlas Plus; or

[0065] 6) Optical grade EVA interlayer.

[0066] Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of an electrochromic component 700 that can be incorporated into a laminate for a window unit is shown. As shown, the electrochromic component 700 can include a first electrode 702 and a second electrode 704. In some embodiments, both the first electrode 702 and the second electrode 704 can be transparent. An ion conductive layer 706 can be disposed between them, such as Figure 4As shown. Electrochromic assembly 700 may be provided to control light transmittance of laminates and window units. In an exemplary embodiment, ion-conducting layer 706 may be an interlayer film having a lithium salt disposed in a polymer layer such as TPU, EVA, or PMMA.

[0067] In some embodiments, the ion-conducting interlayer membrane 706 can be extruded and laminated to the other layers of the laminate. In certain other embodiments, the polymer can be plasticized with a liquid electrolyte. For example, TPU can be plasticized with polypropylene carbonate containing lithium salts. For better transparency, specific organic carbonates can be used as plasticizers. In an example, organic carbonates and dibenzoates or acrylic monomers can be used as plasticizers, and TPU or PMMA and lithium salts are used. In other embodiments, the ion-conducting layer can be formed by casting, coating, UV curing, or using other methods. In some embodiments, electrodes 702, 704 are transparent electrode layers formed as described above. The electrochromic component 700 can be combined with the laminate 305 and used in a window unit. In some embodiments, the photovoltaic layer 300 can be used to power the electrochromic component 700, or a separate power supply can be used.

[0068] Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, these descriptions and examples should be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the embodiments being indicated solely by the appended claims.

[0069] For example, according to one aspect, in a first embodiment, a seal for closing an edge of a laminate structure is provided. The seal includes a polymer base layer, a foil layer adjacent to the polymer base layer, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged on the foil layer.

[0070] A second embodiment is the first embodiment, wherein the polymeric base layer comprises a dark-colored polymeric material.

[0071] A third embodiment is any combination of the first two embodiments, further comprising a carrier layer attached to the polymeric base layer.

[0072] A fourth embodiment is any combination of the first three embodiments, wherein the carrier layer is embossed.

[0073] A fifth embodiment is any combination of the first four embodiments, wherein the polymeric base layer comprises polyurethane.

[0074] A sixth embodiment is any combination of the first five embodiments, wherein the foil layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, titanium, polyimide, and metallized plastic.

[0075] The seventh embodiment is any combination of the first six embodiments, wherein the foil layer comprises a first side and an opposing second side, and further comprising an adhesive coating on at least one side of the foil layer.

[0076] An eighth embodiment is any combination of the first seven embodiments, wherein the adhesive coating comprises a transparent polymeric adhesive layer.

[0077] A ninth embodiment is any combination of the first eight embodiments, wherein the transparent polymer adhesive layer comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane layer.

[0078] The tenth embodiment is any combination of the previous nine embodiments, wherein the photovoltaic cells each comprise a first electrode, an alloy layer, and a second electrode.

[0079] An eleventh embodiment is any combination of the previous ten embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises copper (Cu), indium (In), and gallium (Ga).

[0080] The twelfth embodiment is any combination of the previous eleven embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises sulfur (S).

[0081] The thirteenth embodiment is any combination of the previous twelve embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises selenium (Se).

[0082] The fourteenth embodiment is any combination of the first thirteen embodiments, wherein the alloy layer is printed on the foil layer.

[0083] The fifteenth embodiment is any combination of the previous fourteen embodiments, wherein the alloy layer is printed after forming the first electrode.

[0084] A sixteenth embodiment is any combination of the first fifteen embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of silver, gold, aluminum, thallium, and tellurium.

[0085] The seventeenth embodiment is any combination of the previous sixteen embodiments, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode is transparent.

[0086] An eighteenth embodiment is any combination of the previous seventeen embodiments, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode is opaque.

[0087] In a second aspect, there is provided a first embodiment of a laminate having an edge and a seal according to any combination of the preceding eighteen embodiments is provided on the edge.

[0088] A second embodiment is the laminate of the first embodiment wherein a seal is adhered to the edge.

[0089] A third embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first two embodiments, wherein the laminate comprises a functional layer having a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") disposed therein.

[0090] A fourth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first three embodiments, wherein the LSCs are quantum dots.

[0091] A fifth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first four embodiments, wherein the quantum dots each have a core and a shell.

[0092] A sixth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first five embodiments, wherein the core is a CuIS core and the shell is a ZnS shell.

[0093] A seventh embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first six embodiments, wherein the quantum dots are configured to re-emit absorbed radiation to the photovoltaic cell in the seal.

[0094] An eighth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first seven embodiments, further comprising an electrochromic component.

[0095] A ninth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first eight embodiments, further comprising an infrared absorbing layer.

[0096] A tenth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first nine embodiments, further comprising an infrared reflecting layer.

[0097] An eleventh embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the previous ten embodiments, further comprising an electromagnetic shielding layer.

[0098] A twelfth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the previous eleven embodiments, further comprising an impact resistant layer.

[0099] A thirteenth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first twelve embodiments, further comprising a ballistic resistant layer.

[0100] A fourteenth embodiment of the laminate is any combination of the first thirteen embodiments, wherein the laminate comprises a layer selected from the group consisting of a structural polyvinyl butyral ("PVB") or ionomer layer, an optical grade ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer ("EVA") interlayer, an acoustic grade PVB interlayer, and a solar control PVB, TPU or ionomer interlayer.

[0101] In a third aspect, a first embodiment of a method for sealing an edge of a laminate is provided. The method comprises: forming a base layer on a carrier layer; attaching a foil layer to the base layer to form a seal; printing a plurality of photovoltaic cells on the foil layer; and adhering the seal to the edge of the laminate.

[0102] A second embodiment is the method of the first embodiment, wherein the laminate comprises a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC").

[0103] A third embodiment is the method of the first two embodiments, wherein the LSCs are quantum dots.

[0104] A fourth embodiment is the method of the first three embodiments, wherein the quantum dots each have a core and a shell.

[0105] The fifth embodiment is the method of the first four embodiments, wherein the quantum dots each have a copper iodine sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell.

[0106] The sixth embodiment is the method of the first five embodiments, wherein printing a plurality of photovoltaic cells comprises forming a first electrode, forming an alloy layer, and forming a second electrode.

[0107] The seventh embodiment is the method of the first six embodiments, wherein the laminate comprises at least one pane selected from the group consisting of glass and polycarbonate.

[0108] An eighth embodiment is the method of the first seven embodiments, further comprising forming a thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") layer on the foil layer.

[0109] A ninth embodiment is the method of the first eight embodiments, wherein adhering the seal to the edge of the laminate comprises applying heat to the TPU.

[0110] The tenth embodiment is the method of the first nine embodiments, wherein the base layer comprises a dark polymeric material.

[0111] The eleventh embodiment is the method of the first ten embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga").

[0112] A twelfth embodiment is the method of the eleventh embodiment, wherein the alloy layer comprises sulfur ("S").

[0113] The thirteenth embodiment is the method of the preceding twelve embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises selenium ("Se").

[0114] In a fourth aspect, a first embodiment of a method of forming a seal for a laminate is provided. The method includes forming a plurality of photovoltaic cells on a foil layer, forming a base layer on the foil layer, and forming an adhesive layer on a side of the foil layer opposite the base layer.

[0115] A second embodiment is the method of the first embodiment, wherein the photovoltaic cell is formed by printing the photovoltaic cell on the foil layer.

[0116] A third embodiment is the method of the first two embodiments, wherein printing a plurality of photovoltaic cells comprises forming a first electrode, forming an alloy layer, and forming a second electrode.

[0117] A fourth embodiment is the method of the first three embodiments, wherein the base layer is a dark polymeric material.

[0118] The fifth embodiment is the method of the first four embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga").

[0119] A sixth embodiment is the method of the first five embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises sulfur ("S").

[0120] The seventh embodiment is the method of the first six embodiments, wherein the alloy layer comprises selenium ("Se").

[0121] The eighth embodiment is the method of the first seven embodiments, wherein the base layer is formed by casting the base layer on the side of the foil layer opposite the photovoltaic cell.

[0122] The ninth embodiment is the method of the first eight embodiments, wherein the adhesive layer is formed by casting a transparent aliphatic adhesive on the side of the foil layer opposite the base layer.

[0123] A tenth embodiment is the method of the first nine embodiments, further comprising cutting the seal to a desired width.

[0124] In a fifth aspect, a first embodiment of a method of sealing an edge is provided. The method comprises: providing a stack of layers to form a laminate, at least one of the layers having a luminescent solar concentrator and another of the layers comprising a rigid window; and

[0125] The edges of the stack are wrapped with a seal having the photovoltaic cells therein and having an adhesive layer.

[0126] A second embodiment is the method of the first embodiment, wherein the laminate comprises at least one pane comprising glass or polycarbonate.

[0127] A third embodiment is the method of the first two embodiments, wherein the luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") is a quantum dot.

[0128] A fourth embodiment is the method of the first three embodiments, wherein the quantum dots each have a core and a shell.

[0129] The fifth embodiment is the method of the first four embodiments, wherein the quantum dots each have a copper iodine sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell.

[0130] The sixth embodiment is the method of the first five embodiments, further comprising welding a wire to form an electrical connection to the photovoltaic cell.

[0131] The seventh embodiment is the method of the first six embodiments, further comprising subjecting the stack to thermocompression treatment.

[0132] An eighth embodiment is the method of the first seven embodiments, wherein a heat press treatment laminates the layers in the stack and adheres the seal to the edges.

Claims

1. A seal comprising a polymer base layer, a foil layer adjacent to the polymer base layer, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged on the foil layer. 2 . The seal of claim 1 , wherein the polymer base layer comprises a dark-colored polymer material.

3. The seal of claim 1 further comprising a carrier layer attached to the polymeric base layer. The seal of claim 1 , wherein the carrier layer is embossed.

5. The seal of claim 1, wherein the polymer base layer comprises polyurethane.

6. The seal of claim 1, wherein the foil layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, titanium, polyimide, and metallized plastic.

7. The seal of claim 1, wherein the foil layer comprises a first side and an opposing second side, and further comprising an adhesive coating on at least one side of the foil layer.

8. The seal of claim 7, wherein the adhesive coating comprises a transparent polymer adhesive layer.

9. The seal of claim 8, wherein the transparent polymer adhesive layer comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane layer.

10. The seal of claim 1, wherein the photovoltaic cells each comprise a first electrode, an alloy layer, and a second electrode. 11 . The seal of claim 10 , wherein the alloy layer comprises copper (Cu), indium (In), and gallium (Ga). The seal according to claim 10 , wherein the alloy layer contains sulfur (S). The seal of claim 10 , wherein the alloy layer comprises selenium (Se).

14. The seal of claim 10, wherein the alloy layer is printed on the foil layer.

15. The seal of claim 14, wherein the alloy layer is printed after forming the first electrode.

16. The seal of claim 10, wherein the alloy layer comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of silver, gold, aluminum, thallium, and tellurium.

17. The seal of claim 10, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode is transparent.

18. A laminate having an edge and the seal of claim 1 disposed on the edge.

19. The laminate of claim 19 wherein the seal is adhered to the edge.

20. The laminate of claim 19, wherein the laminate comprises a functional layer having a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") disposed therein.

21. The laminate of claim 21 wherein the LSCs are quantum dots.

22. The laminate of claim 22, wherein the quantum dots each have a core and a shell.

23. The laminate of claim 23, wherein the core is a CuIS core and the shell is a ZnS shell.

24. The laminate of claim 22, wherein the quantum dots are configured to re-emit absorbed radiation to a photovoltaic cell in the seal.

25. The laminate of claim 19 further comprising an electrochromic component.

26. The laminate of claim 19 further comprising an infrared absorbing layer.

27. The laminate of claim 19 further comprising an infrared reflecting layer.

28. The laminate of claim 19 further comprising an electromagnetic shielding layer.

29. The laminate of claim 19 further comprising an impact resistant layer.

30. The laminate of claim 19 further comprising a ballistic resistant layer.

31. The laminate of claim 19, wherein the laminate comprises a layer selected from the group consisting of a structural polyvinyl butyral ("PVB") or ionomer layer, an optical grade ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer ("EVA") interlayer, an acoustic grade PVB interlayer, and a solar control PVB, TPU or ionomer interlayer.

32. A method of sealing the edge of a laminate, comprising: forming a base layer on the carrier layer; attaching a foil layer to the base layer to form a seal; printing a plurality of photovoltaic cells on the foil layer; as well as The seal is adhered to the edges of the laminate.

33. The method of claim 33, wherein the laminate comprises a luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC").

34. The method of claim 34, wherein the LSCs are quantum dots.

35. The method of claim 35, wherein the quantum dots each have a core and a shell.

36. The method of claim 36, wherein the quantum dots each have a copper iodine sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell.

37. The method of claim 33, wherein printing the plurality of photovoltaic cells comprises forming a first electrode, forming an alloy layer, and forming a second electrode.

38. The method of claim 33, wherein the laminate comprises at least one pane selected from the group consisting of glass and polycarbonate.

39. The method of claim 33, further comprising forming a thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") layer on the foil layer.

40. The method of claim 40, wherein adhering the seal to the edge of the laminate comprises applying heat to the TPU.

41. The method of claim 33, wherein the base layer comprises a dark polymer material.

42. The method of claim 38, wherein the alloy layer comprises copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga").

43. The method of claim 38, wherein the alloy layer comprises sulfur ("S").

44. The method of claim 38, wherein the alloy layer comprises selenium ("Se").

45. A method of forming a seal for a laminate, comprising: forming a plurality of photovoltaic cells on the foil layer; forming a base layer on the foil layer; as well as An adhesive layer is formed on a side of the foil layer opposite to the base layer.

46. ​​The method of claim 46, wherein the photovoltaic cell is formed by printing a photovoltaic cell on the foil layer.

47. The method of claim 47, wherein printing the plurality of photovoltaic cells comprises forming a first electrode, forming an alloy layer, and forming a second electrode.

48. The method of claim 46, wherein the base layer is a dark polymeric material.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the alloy layer comprises copper ("Cu"), indium ("In"), and gallium ("Ga").

50. The method of claim 48, wherein the alloy layer comprises sulfur ("S").

51. The method of claim 48, wherein the alloy layer comprises selenium ("Se").

52. The method of claim 46, wherein the base layer is formed by casting a base layer on a side of the foil layer opposite the photovoltaic cell.

53. The method of claim 46, wherein the adhesive layer is formed by casting a transparent aliphatic adhesive on a side of the foil layer opposite the base layer.

54. The method of claim 46, further comprising cutting the seal to a desired width.

55. A method of sealing an edge, comprising: providing a stack of layers to form a laminate, at least one of the layers having a luminescent solar concentrator and another of the layers comprising a rigid window; as well as The edges of the stack are wrapped with a seal having the photovoltaic cell and an adhesive layer therein.

56. The method of claim 56, wherein the laminate comprises at least one pane comprising glass or polycarbonate.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein the luminescent solar concentrator ("LSC") is a quantum dot.

58. The method of claim 58, wherein the quantum dots each have a core and a shell.

59. The method of claim 59, wherein the quantum dots each have a copper iodine sulfide ("CuIS") core and a zinc sulfide ("ZnS") shell.

60. The method of claim 56, further comprising welding a wire to form an electrical connection to the photovoltaic cell.

61. The method of claim 56, further comprising subjecting the stack to thermocompression treatment.

62. The method of claim 62, wherein heat pressing laminates the layers in the stack and adheres the seal to the edge.

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