Composite Getter for Photovoltaic Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photovoltaic panels face deterioration due to water ingress, which affects both the cells and the module, leading to oxidation, corrosion, and reduced lifespan, with existing solutions focusing on water sorbing capacity rather than the 'lag time' before deterioration occurs.
Innovation Solution
A composite getter material is developed using alkaline earth metal oxides dispersed in a polymeric matrix with low water transmission, specifically designed to increase the lag time before water ingress affects the panel, comprising a moisture sorber consisting essentially of one or more alkaline earth metal oxides, such as magnesium or calcium oxide, within a polymeric matrix like EVA or EPR, ensuring effective adhesion and thermal stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional water sorbing materials are used in photovoltaic panels, then water sorbing capacity is provided, but the lag time before water ingress affects the panel is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite material consisting of alkaline earth metal oxide particles dispersed in a polymeric matrix. This composite structure combines the high water sorption capacity of the oxide particles with the protective properties of the polymer matrix, achieving both high water sorbing capacity and extended lag time before water ingress affects the photovoltaic panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by selecting specific alkaline earth metal oxides (such as magnesium oxide or calcium oxide) with controlled particle sizes and concentrations. These parameter changes optimize the water sorption kinetics and capacity, thereby extending the lag time before water ingress occurs.
2Reliability
If alkaline earth metal oxide is dispersed in polymeric matrix, then lag time for water ingress is prolonged, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The composite getter is segmented into discrete particles of alkaline earth metal oxide dispersed within the polymeric matrix. This segmentation allows for simplified processing and manufacturing, as the particles can be easily mixed and distributed throughout the matrix during fabrication, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the composite nature of the material.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composite getter significantly prolongs the lag time for water ingress, thereby extending the photovoltaic panel's lifetime by at least 10 years, as demonstrated through accelerated testing, with improved adhesive properties and reduced water transmission rates, outperforming prior art solutions.
Implementation Method 1
a composite getter material is developed using alkaline earth metal oxides dispersed in a polymeric matrix with low water transmission, specifically designed to increase the lag time before water ingress affects the panel
Implementation Method 2
a polymeric matrix having low H2O transmission
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention refers to a composite getter for thin-film photovoltaic panels which is made with a polymer having low H2O transmission containing one or more alkaline earth metal oxide, to a photovoltaic panel containing such composite getter and to a method for the manufacturing of photovoltaic panels.