Title:	On the Road towards Vehicle Integration: Glass-Fibre Reinforced Encapsulation Enabling Light-Weight and Curved Modules
Author(s):	J. Govaerts, T. Borgers, A.S.H. van der Heide, L. Vastmans, R. Moors, G. Doumen, L. Tous, A. Bettinelli, S. Harrison, B. Willems, G. Galbiati, M. Galiazzo, L. Cerasti, J. Poortmans
Keywords:	Light Weight, VIPV, Materials
Topic:	New Materials and Concepts for Photovoltaic Devices
Subtopic:	New Materials and Concepts for Cells and Modules
Event:	37th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition
Session:	1BV.4.47
Pages:	98 - 102
ISBN:	3-936338-73-6
Paper DOI:	10.4229/EUPVSEC20202020-1BV.4.47
Price:	0,00 EUR
Document(s):	paper

Abstract/Summary:

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In this work we propose an approach for integrating c-Si PV into lightweight structures targeting applications away from more standard PV installations as BAPV and ground-mounted PV power plants. Allowing also to adapt to curved surfaces, this approach would be very suitable for vehicle integration. The technology is based on reinforcing the encapsulant with glass fibres, and in first instance is being developed with commercially available material. After motivating the work in an introduction, some considerations are outlined in terms of performance, cost, weight, curvature, aesthetics and reliability. These will need to be translated into requirements in the future. Then we elaborate on the initial tests that have been carried out. Using either standard tabbing-stringing and shingled interconnection, stacks with different material combinations were prepared and laminated. After testing the IV-performance, the laminates have been submitted to thermal cycling and are being monitored. The initial results that are available are reported.