Full Description

The encapsulant fulfils the purposes of optically coupling the cell to external radiation; mechanically attaching and holding module components in their relative positions; electrically isolating module components; thermally coupling module components; and chemically protecting module components (e.g., by limiting the concentration and transport of water and/or oxygen). This part of IEC 62788 defines test methods and reporting requirements for characteristics (optical, mechanical, electrical, thermal, and chemical) of non-rigid polymeric materials (e.g., poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate), EVA) intended for use in terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules as polymeric encapsulants.

Typically, encapsulants are considered functional insulators, i.e., they provide electrical insulation when present, but may not meet the requirements of relied upon insulation. Requirements related to relied upon insulation are identified in IEC 61730-1 and IEC 62788-2-1.

The test methods in this document define how to characterize encapsulant materials in a manner representative of how they will be used in the module, which includes combination with other components such as frontsheets, backsheets, adhesives, edge seals, or glass. The methods described in this document support and supplement the safety- and performance-related tests defined on the PV module level, as defined in IEC 61730-2 and IEC 61215-2. This document also defines test methods for general assessment of material characteristics of polymeric encapsulants.

The test methods described in this document may be used for the purposes of: datasheet reporting (aiding module design or material research and development); process and manufacturing control (e.g., incoming or outgoing inspection); application in module safety and design type qualification protocols; or reliability and durability study/standards development.