Photovoltaic modules encapsulated in composite material modified with ultraviolet additives

Photovoltaic modules were manufactured by vacuum resin infusion process using glass reinforced epoxy composite as encapsulant where the cells are embedded. Incorporation of ultraviolet absorber (UVA) and hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) additives to the epoxy resin was studied, given their potential to enhance the performance stability of the modules under ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Photovoltaic and aging performance were examined through the evolution of external quantum efficiency (EQE) spectra, short-circuit current values and colour change. Decrease in the initial photovoltaic performance of the modules was observed, as evidenced in the short-circuit losses when additives are incorporated. Regarding the performance stability, increasing the content of both, UVA and HALS, leaded to improved results with lower short-circuit current loss and yellowness observed due to UV radiation. The most stable module, with cells embedded in 1% UVA and 1% HALS containing composite, showed a 2.8% short-circuit current loss after an UV exposure of 15.4 KWh/m2. UV protection enhancement was obtained in trade-off with initial photovoltaic performance, which should be considered when defining the additives and the amount to be used.