New Durable, High-Performance, Fluorine-Free PV Backsheets

By Jan Grimberg

In February of this year, DSM acquired Sunshine, an innovative high-performance PV backplane manufacturer based on coextrusion technology. It is now part of DSM and DSM is a leader in anti-reflection and anti-fouling coatings. By adding a fluorine-free backsheet to its product portfolio, DSM is ready to use its innovative strengths and expertise in materials science to help bring the solar industry to a new level.

Win-win cooperation

"Traditionally, PV backsheets were built using laminate technology," explains Grimberg. “To stick paper together, you need to use adhesives. Sunny Zhao, the founder of Sunshine, decided to use the co-extrusion process to be more efficient. In co-extrusion, all layers are produced simultaneously. Combining well-designed polymerization This will form a very durable backsheet. DSM was impressed by this concept and began to cooperate with Sunshine in 2016. "

“The acquisition followed in February of this year. DSM can add significant value to the sun and open the global market for this domestic Chinese technology. In addition, DSM's extensive experience and expertise in polymer, materials processing and materials science. The combination of Sun's entrepreneurial spirit will undoubtedly bring in more exciting new solar energy products. "

Reduce LCOE and carbon footprint

Grimberg said that high-performance PV backplane has multiple advantages. “It provides extra energy output and is very durable. Because of the adhesiveless co-extrusion process, these layers are more or less inseparable. These rugged panels can handle the harsh environment in the desert very well, desert erosion They can cause serious damage to solar panels.They also have a low moisture permeability - or WVTR (Water Vapor Transmission Rate). Increasing durability significantly reduces the module's energy balance cost (LCOE)."

"But that's not all. Perhaps more importantly, we can make these high-performance panels without using halogens such as fluorine. Life-cycle analysis shows that our negative film carbon footprint is 30% lower than that of fluorine-based products. In addition, in use At the end of life, the recycling module will be cheaper because our backplane can be 100% recycled. "

Positive market response

Market response to DSM's new backsheet has been very positive. “The market is really interested in our high-quality products and materials,” said Grimberg. “The need for innovations to help bring down LCOE is more urgent than ever, generally given that in Many markets subsidies for solar are being phased out. That's why these parties are continuously looking for new and different ways to bring costs down. Innovative solutions such as the new backsheet can make a significant contribution to this effort."

Long-term commitment

“When looking for innovations, project developers - the parties responsible for building and managing solar parks – are particularly looking for reliable partners with a good track record who are committed to solar for the long term. Decades of relevant experience," explained Grimberg. "We've collected lots of relevant data over the years - and continue to do so – to make sure our innovations are based on solid research and experience in the field. As investments in solar parks are Substantial, developers tend to think twice before they decide which parties to engage with. Solar is no longer a market for opportunists. It's become a serious business that requires a long-term commitment on the part of all citizens involved."

Portfolio of innovations

DSM Advanced Solar is part of DSM, a global operating science company focused on health, nutrition and materials. The company is actively involved in the development of renewable energy in multiple sectors. DSM Advanced Solar is focused on developing technologies and materials that increase the efficiency, stability and sustainability of solar modules at all stages of the value chain. DSM Advanced Solar is a leader in anti-reflective coatings. In addition to the latest non-fluorine backsheets, the company recently introduced a new antifouling coating for photovoltaic solar glass, which will bring significant energy output and more cost-effective maintenance to solar power stations. benefit.

Author: Jan Grimberg is DSM's Senior Solar Business Director.