POE (Polyolefin Elastomer) has recently emerged as an alternative material for solar photovoltaic (PV) encapsulation sheets. These encapsulation sheets play a crucial role in protecting solar panels and ensuring their long-term performance.
Very low WVTR : Water Vapor Transmission Rate is a measure of the rate at which water vapor can permeate through a material. POE encapsulants are engineered to provide an effective moisture barrier for solar panels, helping to prevent the ingress of water vapor that could lead to electrical and structural damage, as well as a decrease in efficiency over time. These materials are designed to maintain their moisture-resistant properties throughout the service life of the solar panels, even under environmental conditions that may subject them to humidity and temperature variations.
Volume Resistivity : The volume resistivity is a measure of its electrical resistance to the flow of electrical current through its volume. A higher volume resistivity indicates a greater resistance to electrical conduction.
POE encapsulants used in solar panels typically exhibit insulating properties, meaning they have relatively high volume resistivity, in the range of 10 ¹⁶ . This insulating property is essential in the design and performance of solar panels for reasons like Electrical Isolation,Prevention of Leakage Current and Safety.
Acetic Acid : POE encapsulants are not known for releasing acetic acid during their curing process or over time. These encapsulants are formulated to be stable and inert in their cured state, and they do not typically emit acetic acid.This ensures longevity and optimal performance throughout the life of the panel.
Durability: POE encapsulation sheets are designed to withstand various environmental stresses, including exposure to UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and weather conditions. They are known for their long-term durability, which helps extend the lifespan of solar panels.
UV Resistance: One of the key features of POE encapsulation sheets is their excellent UV resistance. They are formulated to resist UV degradation and minimize yellowing over time, ensuring that they maintain their optical clarity and do not hinder the transmission of sunlight to the solar cells.
High Transmittance: POE encapsulation sheets are engineered to have high optical transmittance in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) spectra. This property allows them to efficiently transmit sunlight to the underlying solar cells, maximizing the energy conversion efficiency of the PV module.
Weather Resistance: POE encapsulation sheets are often resistant to environmental factors such as moisture, humidity, and temperature extremes. They are designed to protect the solar cells from moisture ingress, which can lead to electrical and structural damage over time.
Flexibility: POE is an elastomeric material, which means it is flexible and can accommodate the expansion and contraction of the solar panel components during temperature changes. This flexibility helps reduce the risk of delamination and cracking in the encapsulation layer.
Adhesion: POE encapsulation sheets are typically designed to adhere well to both the front cover glass and the backsheet of the solar module. Good adhesion is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the panel and preventing moisture infiltration.
