PV module materials and encapsulation research

The goals, objectives, background, technical approach, status, and accomplishments for the PV Module Materials and Encapsulation Research Task are summarized for FY 1994 and the first half of FY 1995. The accomplishments are reported in several elements, i.e., those effects related to degradation of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer and to using superstrates for PV cells. The EVA results are presented under the headings, encapsulation of PV modules using an EVA pottant, recommendation to use the 15295 EVA formulation instead of A9918, modified EVA and potential EVA replacements, degradation mechanisms, efficiency losses from yellowed EVA, and factors that affect the EVA discoloration rate, experimental procedures, and equipment acquisitions. The results on superstrate materials are presented in the appropriate sections on reducing the rate of EVA degradation and promoting photobleaching reactions in EVA.