Hard-pressed Asian solar manufacturers have switched from multi-layer polymer backsheets to a single layer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), with a protective coating on both sides of their modules. Backsheet makers confirm these products, known as “CPC,” are now mainstream. But there is little evidence to demonstrate that they can withstand 30 years-plus of outdoor use.
Cracking, which allows moisture to affect the inner workings of a solar module, is among the most common failure modes for PV backsheets.
Photo: NIST
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