Do solar panels need adhesive?

In the solar industry, adhesives are used throughout the process of manufacturing and installation. Henkel's adhesive Loctite 3388P enables high-strength ingot bonding in solar applications. Thin-film solar panels (see page 296), in particular, need adhesives around the edges because they typically don’t have frames to protect them.

Are solar adhesives weather resistant?

Weather resistance is a primary concern with the adhesives used to install solar panels, so solar manufacturers and installers should investigate how long the adhesives are going to last in the harsh conditions of a typical solar installation. An introduction to solar adhesives from our 2012 Renewable Energy Handbook.

What is a solar adhesive?

An adhesive is a substance that unites or bonds surfaces together. In the solar industry, adhesives are used throughout the process of manufacturing and installation. Henkel's adhesive Loctite 3388P enables high-strength ingot bonding in solar applications.

Do thin film solar panels need adhesive?

Thin-film solar panels (see page 296), in particular, need adhesives around the edges because they typically don’t have frames to protect them. They need an additional moisture barrier called a side or edge seal. Many manufacturers use butyl, either in a liquid or tape form. Butyl-casting resins provide water vapor-tight sealing.

What are the benefits of structural adhesives for solar panels?

Another concern for solar panel installers is the weight of the system. Structural adhesives eliminate the weight of mechanical fasteners and improve stress distribution, while providing a clean, streamlined appearance.

How much adhesive do I need for a solar panel bracket?

If you're using adhesive you want as much surface area connection between the bracket and the roof. A couple inches of bracket may not be enough. Using adhesive under Unistrut that matches the full length of the solar panels is much better. But I'm a lot more comfortable with actual fasteners.