Featured in 2025 Unboxed – 02-2025

Backsheet’s back

Hard-pressed Asian solar manufacturers have switched from multi-layer polymer backsheets to a single layer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), with a protective coating on both sides of their modules. Backsheet makers confirm these products, known as “CPC,” are now mainstream. But there is little evidence to demonstrate that they can withstand 30 years-plus of outdoor use.
Mark Hutchins
By
Mark Hutchins
Cracking, which allows moisture to affect the inner workings of a solar module, is among the most common failure modes for PV backsheets. | Photo: NIST

 Polymer backsheets have received little attention in recent years, amid doubts about durability and limited transparent polymer options. Module makers have instead used glass on both sides, particularly in the large-scale project segment. Around 45% of modules currently being produced still feature backsheets, and while the trend toward glass-glass is set to continue, backsheet demand …

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