Can plastic substrates be used for flexible PV devices?

Among them, plastic (polymer) substrates have been widely used for conventional flexible PV devices. Plastic substrates have many advantages, such as good optical transmittance in the visible range, low cost, lightweight, and a simple design. Recently, many studies have focused on the use of plastic materials for flexible circuits [19, 20].

Which materials are used for flexible PV devices?

To date, metal foil, ultrathin glass, and plastic have been suggested as alternate flexible substrate materials (Table 1). Among them, plastic (polymer) substrates have been widely used for conventional flexible PV devices.

Are flexible photovoltaics (PVs) beyond Silicon possible?

Recent advancements for flexible photovoltaics (PVs) beyond silicon are discussed. Flexible PV technologies (materials to module fabrication) are reviewed. The study approaches the technology pathways to flexible PVs beyond Si. For the previous few decades, the photovoltaic (PV) market was dominated by silicon-based solar cells.

Why do solar PV modules need a film extruder?

The lamination process also helps to remove any air pockets or wrinkles that may have formed during the assembly process. POE film manufactured by the film extruder is used in solar PV modules as a backsheet, which is the outermost layer of the module that faces the environment.

Why are organic photovoltaic devices made in a glove box?

The unstable nature of conjugated polymers when illuminated in the presence of oxygen, and the reactive nature of low work function metals such as calcium towards water quickly led to the preparation of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices in the protective atmosphere of a glove box.

Can glass be used as a flexible PV substrate?

However, even with high flexibility, the intrinsic opaque appearance makes it much less interesting for being utilized as flexible PV substrates. Glass has long been the common choice for quite many building envelope applications including atrium roofs and skylights where materials with lightweight, high strength, and low cost are essential.