Title:	An Exploratory Study on the Role of Sand Erosion on the Degradation of Wet Insulation Resistance of Photovoltaic Modules in a Desert-Like Environment
Author(s):	U. Desai, A. Singh
Keywords:	Backsheet, PV Reliability, Sand Erosion, Insulation Resistance
Topic:	Photovoltaic Modules and BoS Components
Subtopic:	Materials for PV Modules, Durability, Reliability and Accelerated Testing Methods
Event:	8th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion
Session:	3DV.3.3
Pages:	887 - 889
ISBN:	3-936338-86-8
Paper DOI:	10.4229/WCPEC-82022-3DV.3.3
Price:	0,00 EUR
Document(s):	paper, poster

Abstract/Summary:

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Multi-layered polymeric backsheets in PV modules act as the first line of defense against both environmental and mechanical stressors. Continued exposure of the field stressors during the lifespan of the PV modules can promote degradation of its components, including the backsheets. Degradation of backsheets poses a life hazard since it increases the risk of electrification at high voltages. Desert-storm like conditions can potentially erode the outer layer of the backsheets thereby affecting the insulation capability of the backsheets. Therefore, in this work, we have prepared mini modules of size 5 cm X 5 cm having polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based backsheet. These laminates have been subjected to erosion by sand particles for 30 minutes and 10 m/s velocity at an angle of attack of 30°. It is observed that the erosion of the outer layer of the backsheets affect the wet-insulation resistance of the minimodules when backsheet surface is in wet condition. However, no significant changes after the sand erosion have been observed in the insulation resistance for the dry condition and when the glass is wet. The findings of this study give merit to the sand erosion process of the PV backsheets as an important field stressor.