Title:	Repair and Preventive Maintenance of PV Modules with Degrading Backsheets Using Flowable Silicone Sealant
Author(s):	G. Beaucarne, G.C. Eder, E. Jadot, Y. Voronko, W. Mühleisen
Keywords:	Degradation, Cracks, Preventive Maintenance, Backsheet Repair, Flowable Silicone
Topic:	PV Systems – Modelling, Design, Operation and Performance
Subtopic:	Operation, Performance and Maintenance of PV Systems
Event:	38th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition
Session:	5DO.2.6
Pages:	1051 - 1053
ISBN:	3-936338-78-7
Paper DOI:	10.4229/EUPVSEC20212021-5DO.2.6
Price:	0,00 EUR
Document(s):	paper, presentation

Abstract/Summary:

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PV modules with a degrading backsheet are a problem for the complete PV value chain. Some types of backsheets are known to develop cracks because of an aging-induced change in the mechanical characteristics of the material during operation in the field, which results in a loss of insulation resistance. In this work, we present a solution for repair and preventive maintenance based on a single component flowable silicone sealant. The method fills the cracks present in the backsheet with an insulating material, restores the insulation resistance, and provides a protective layer to avoid subsequent degradation. The solution was successfully implemented on the back of PV modules with coextruded polyamide backsheet (‘AAA’) which showed deep cracks following degradation 5-7 years of operation in a solar park. The repaired modules had a restored insulation resistance of several hundred MΩ as observed with wet leakage testing, and maintained a high resistance after accelerating aging. This repair technology can be done in the field and is an alternative solution to module replacement.