This first book on durability studies of photovoltaic modules provides the background information on this hot topic, including operating conditions and stress factors. The experienced author team covers various accelerated life tests, including single stress–factor tests and combi–tests.
A must–have for the photovoltaic industry as well as researchers (material scientists, physicists and chemists) working in the field.
A must–have for the photovoltaic industry as well as researchers (material scientists, physicists and chemists) working in the field.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTIONMarket needs and developments
Design of presently used and future PV–devices
Characterisation of PV–modules
OPERATION CONDITIONS
Weathering, voltages, soiling, salt impact
OUTDOOR MONITORING
Sensors for climate–measurements
Data–acquisition systems
IV–curve measurements
EVALUATION OF STRESS CONDITIONS
Correlation macro–climate and micro–climate
Modelling micro–climate: Module temperature, surface humidity, effective humidity
Comparison of the climate at different testing sites and evaluation of stress levels
ACCELERATION FACTORS AND TIME TRANSFORMATION FUNCTIONS
Acceleration possibilities
Acceleration models (time transformation functions) for the different stress factors
DEFINITION OF ACCELERATED LIFE TEST (ALT) CONDITIONS FOR DIFFERENT LOCATIONS AND DIFFERENT STRESS FACTORS
ALT for tropical, arid, urban, maritime and alpine conditions for UV–load, moisture, humidity, temperature difference, potential induced degradation etc.
SINGLE STRESS–FACTOR ALT
Requirements for the test equipment
Test results
Evaluation of the material–specific parameters for the time–transformation function
DESIGN OF COMBI–TESTS
Simultaneous stress application (UV and humidity, temperature cycling and humidity)
Modelling by FEM
Requirements to the test equipment
Sequential test procedures
EVALUATION OF COMBI–TESTS WITH DIFFERENT STRESS LEVELS
Service life estimation from combi–tests
OUTDOOR EXPOSURE
IV–curve monitoring and evaluation
Comparison with ALT
ANALYSIS OF DEGRADATION PRODUCTS
Non–destructive optical methods (spectroscopy, luminescence)
Destructive methods (Rheology, SEM/EDX)
PROPOSAL FOR ACCELERATED SERVICE LIFE TESTING PROCEDURE
MODELLING THE INTEGRAL ENERGY YIELD DURING THE LIFE–TIME
Degradation functions from combi–tests
Low–light–behaviour
Comparison of different modules and systems operating at different locations
