Photovoltaic glass component processing

Why is glass used in photovoltaic modules?

Glass is used in photovoltaic modules as layer of protection against the elements. In thin-film technology, glass also serves as the substrate upon which the photovoltaic material and other chemicals (such as TCO) are deposited. Glass is also the basis for mirrors used to concentrate sunlight, although new technologies avoiding glass are emerging.

How are photovoltaic absorbers made?

The manufacturing typically starts with float glass coated with a transparent conductive layer, onto which the photovoltaic absorber material is deposited in a process called close-spaced sublimation. Laser scribing is used to pattern cell strips and to form an interconnect pathway between adjacent cells.

How are thin film PV modules made?

Thin film PV modules are typically processed as a single unit from beginning to end, where all steps occur in one facility. The manufacturing typically starts with float glass coated with a transparent conductive layer, onto which the photovoltaic absorber material is deposited in a process called close-spaced sublimation.

How much solar energy does commercial glass produce?

Base-line commercial glass has a solar transmission of 83.7%. I.e. 16.3% of the sun's energy do not even get to the PV material. The energy loss is due - in equal parts - to reflection on the surface and absorption within the glass due to iron impurities. The density of glass is about 2,500 kg/m 3 or 2.5kg/m 2 per 1mm width.

What are the characteristics of glass for solar applications?

For solar applications the main attributes of glass are transmission, mechanical strength and specific weight. Transmission factors measure the ratio of energy of the transmitted to the incoming light for a specific glass and glass width. Ratio of the total energy from an AM1-5 source over whole solar spectrum from 300 - 2,500nm wavelength.

How will solar PV module manufacturing capacity grow?

Rapid Expansion Plans: Solar PV module manufacturing capacity is expected to experience significant growth to meet rising demand. This growth will be driven by both established manufacturers and new entrants entering the market (expected to invest heavily in solar infrastructure).