BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020: Measurement Procedures for Materials Used in Photovoltaic Modules

General Tests: Moisture Permeation Testing of Polymeric Materials

In the rapidly evolving world of renewable energy, photovoltaic modules play a crucial role in harnessing solar power. The BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard is an essential document for professionals in the solar energy sector, providing comprehensive guidelines for the measurement procedures of materials used in photovoltaic modules. This standard focuses specifically on the general tests and moisture permeation testing of polymeric materials, ensuring the durability and efficiency of solar panels.

Key Features of the Standard

• Standard Number: BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020
• Pages: 24
• Released: 2020-05-13
• ISBN: 978 0 580 96639 2
• Status: Standard

Why This Standard is Important

The BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard is pivotal for ensuring the quality and reliability of photovoltaic modules. As solar panels are exposed to various environmental conditions, the materials used in their construction must withstand moisture and other elements. This standard provides detailed procedures for testing the moisture permeation of polymeric materials, which are commonly used in the encapsulation and backsheet layers of solar panels.

By adhering to this standard, manufacturers and researchers can ensure that the materials used in photovoltaic modules meet the necessary performance criteria, leading to longer-lasting and more efficient solar panels. This not only enhances the return on investment for solar energy systems but also contributes to the sustainability and environmental benefits of solar power.

Comprehensive Testing Procedures

The BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard outlines a series of rigorous testing procedures designed to evaluate the moisture permeation properties of polymeric materials. These tests are crucial for determining the suitability of materials in various climatic conditions, ensuring that they can withstand humidity, rain, and other moisture-related challenges.

The standard provides detailed instructions on how to conduct these tests, including the equipment required, the testing environment, and the specific parameters to be measured. This ensures consistency and accuracy in the testing process, allowing for reliable comparisons between different materials and products.

Benefits of Using the Standard

Implementing the BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard offers numerous benefits for manufacturers, researchers, and end-users of photovoltaic modules:

• Enhanced Durability: By selecting materials that meet the moisture permeation criteria, solar panels are more resistant to environmental degradation, leading to longer lifespans and reduced maintenance costs.
• Improved Efficiency: High-quality materials that prevent moisture ingress help maintain the electrical performance of solar panels, ensuring optimal energy output.
• Standardization: The standard provides a uniform framework for testing, allowing for consistent quality control across the industry.
• Innovation: By following the guidelines, researchers can develop new materials and technologies that push the boundaries of solar panel performance.

Who Should Use This Standard?

The BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard is an invaluable resource for a wide range of professionals in the solar energy sector, including:

• Manufacturers: Ensure that your products meet industry standards for quality and performance.
• Researchers: Develop and test new materials that enhance the efficiency and durability of photovoltaic modules.
• Quality Assurance Teams: Implement standardized testing procedures to maintain high levels of product quality.
• Regulatory Bodies: Use the standard as a benchmark for compliance and certification processes.

Conclusion

The BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard is a critical tool for advancing the solar energy industry. By providing detailed guidelines for moisture permeation testing of polymeric materials, it ensures that photovoltaic modules are built to withstand the challenges of real-world environments. This not only enhances the performance and longevity of solar panels but also supports the broader goal of transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

Whether you are a manufacturer, researcher, or quality assurance professional, this standard is an essential resource for ensuring the success and reliability of your solar energy projects. Embrace the guidelines set forth in the BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 standard and contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future.

BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020

This standard BS EN IEC 62788-6-2:2020 Measurement procedures for materials used in photovoltaic modules is classified in these ICS categories:

• 27.160 Solar energy engineering

This document provides methods for measuring the steady-state water vapour transmission rate (WVTR), water vapour permeability (P), diffusivity (D), solubility (S), and moisture breakthrough time (Ƭ₁₀) (defined as the time to reach 10 % of the steady state WVTR) for polymeric materials such as encapsulants, edge seals, frontsheets and backsheets. These measurements can be made at selected temperatures and humidity levels as deemed appropriate for evaluation of their performance in PV modules. Measurement is accomplished by inspection of the transient WVTR curve and by fitting it to a theoretical Fickian model. This document is best applied to monolithic films. If multilayer films are used, the D and S values are only apparent values, but the steady-state values can still be measured.

This document was written for the measurement of water permeation, but it can equally be used for other permeants such as O₂. In this case the same diffusion equations, fitting procedures, and scaling arguments are used.