Description

Apolhya® Solar developed by Arkema is a new thermoplastic, based on nanostructured copolymers, to encapsulate photovoltaic cells in the new photovoltaic panels generations, in particular in flexible modules. Thanks to the nano-structuration, Apolhya® Solar combine good thermo-mechanical properties and creep resistance with high transparency. Since no curing time is required Apolhya® Solar allow fast encapsulation process, and time/cost savings in the making of solar panels. Five Apolhya® Solar grades are already available, according to melting temperature, melt viscosity, transparency and barrier property requirements. They can be proposed ready-to-use with UV stabilisers incorporated and/or adhesion promoters introduced as master batch. Other grades can also be prepared upon specific requirements.

Properties

This new nanostructured copolymer offers a unique balance of properties:

• High transparency
• Creep resistance up to 110°C – 120°C range
• No curing, allowing fast encapsulation process
• Low melting temperature compatible with the lamination process
• Low moisture sensitivity
• Excellent aging resistance and UV stability with UV stabilizers
• Good electrical insulation properties
• Low density (d < 1)
• Excellent adhesive properties (to glass and other materials)
• Mechanical and impact resistance

Markets and applications

Apolhya® Solar thermoplastic encapsulants allow faster lamination of:

• Crystalline silicon PV modules
• Thin film PV modules including flexible ones