Honeywell has launched its third-generation laminate film, ‘PowerShield’ 3W, which is designed to protect PV modules from harsh environments while helping them maintain power output over their 25-year life-spans.

Problem

PV module manufacturers require cost effective and reliable protection for cells and circuitry, while meeting the cost reduction challenges.

Solution

PowerShield 3W is claimed to be a cost-effective backsheet preventing moisture from entering the module and keeping electrical charges within the module. These features help the module retain maximum power output while maintaining electrical safety. The new laminate is bound by a proprietary adhesive specifically designed for photovoltaic applications. The adhesive helps make the laminate the most durable backsheet available from Honeywell to date. Independent photovoltaic-industry laboratory tests were said to show that PowerShield 3W can withstand more than 3,000 hours of accelerating aging exposure at 85°C (185°F) and 85 percent relative humidity without losing structural integrity.

Applications

PV module encapsulation.

Platform

The backsheet’s superior adhesive offers excellent resistance to discoloration due to aging, which helps solar modules retain their appearance and reflectivity. Like all PowerShield backsheets, PowerShield 3W offers high resistance to environmental degradation from sunlight, heat, cold and humidity; strong resistance to acids, bases, solvents, salts and other chemicals; and resistance to excessive moisture infiltration within a module. The Honeywell PowerShield supply chain is said to provide module makers with a single point of contact for every component of their backsheet, helping ensure a reliable supply and quality.

Availability

May 2012 onwards.