- DURATION: January 2022- november 2024
- GENERAL OBJETIVE:The main objective of the project is to develop non-destructive, real-time inspection techniques for the encapsulant material of photovoltaic modules. The development of these techniques, based on terahertz and UV fluorescence technology, aims to extend the inspection methods for these materials and to gain confidence in one of the most vulnerable parts of photovoltaic modules, the encapsulant material.Three parameters have been identified to evaluate the quality of the encapsulant material and its state of degradation: thickness, adhesion (and water ingress) and degree of polymerization. The measurements made using terahertz spectroscopy and UV fluorescence techniques to determine these parameters will be validated using traditional destructive methods, commonly used in the photovoltaic industry. In addition to this, the second phase of the project will involve the development of a photovoltaic module inspection system, which is expected to achieve a TRL 3-4 level. The development of the project will allow comparing both techniques and assessing their degree of complementarity when analyzing non-destructively the characteristics identified for the evaluation of the quality of the encapsulating material and its state of degradation.
- CENER´S ROLE :CENER contributes with its extensive experience in the field of photovoltaic technology and the characterization of the encapsulant material by means of usual techniques and others of more recent development, such as ultraviolet fluorescence spectroscopy. Additionally, CENER will collaborate in the development of a prototype inspection system for photovoltaic modules and its validation.UPNA contributes with its knowledge of sensing techniques and terahertz spectroscopy.
- BUDGET : TOTAL : 279.670 €, CENER : 130.238 €
- PARTNERS: UPNA, CENER
- FUNDING: Government of Navarra (Aid to Sinai agents for Collaborative R&D projects. Call 2022. Technology centers and research organizations).
