Degradation Mechanism Investigation of Extended Damp Heat Aged PV Modules

摘要: The lifetime and sustained power output of a photovoltaic (PV) module impacts the total number kilowatt-hours (kWh) produced, which ultimately drives cost generated electricity. Because PV lifetimes are desired to be greater than 20 years, accelerated testing protocols, such as IEC 61215, have been used assure that year is achievable. In particular, Damp Heat (85°C/85% relative humidity) protocol has accelerate potential degradation mechanisms by increasing temperature humidity modules under test. This aging test was applied with silicone ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulation materials compare their performance. These were aged in several times longer standard 1000 hours. periodically analyzed for current voltage (IV) Sun Simulator influence encapsulant on output. At 3000 hours exposure significant reduction noted EVA set modules, while minimal observed set. driven reduced Fill Factors (FF) increased Series Resistance (Rs). reductions initially interpreted corrosion taking place at electrical interconnects; however, further showed drop Short Circuit Current(Isc) indicating other could work. Analysis electroluminescence (EL) imaging also indicated factors interconnects may occurred. presentation describes analysis encapsulated after extended help determine involved over time.