DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions' annual 'Global Photovoltaic Reliability Report' for 2020 has identified a rapid increase of cracking in PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) backsheets after inspecting more than nine million PV panels.
According to DuPont Photovoltaic and Advanced Materials latest ‘Global PV Reliability Study’ that focuses on field inspection and analysis of 6.5 million modules, 355 installations and 1.8GW of total power, PV backsheet material defects have increased by a significant 47% from the 2018 report.
Bischof + Klein has introduced a new generation of PV module backsheets, designed to provide greater stability when exposed to UV radiation and increased protection against moisture ingress. The new B+K ‘BackFlex’ PP backsheet is based on polypropylene and is therefore naturally resistant to hydrolysis. It can withstand more than 5,000 hours of damp heat testing (85°C / 85% r.h.).