With the ongoing development of photovoltaic (PV) technology, the selection of encapsulating materials for solar modules is becoming increasingly important in defining the modules’ overall performance as well as their dependability over the long term. However, it is vital to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) photovoltaic film in contrast to other PV films, such as polyolefin elastomer (POE) and ethylene-propylene elastomer (EPE). EVA solar film has been widely employed in the industry. The purpose of this article is to provide a complete examination of the many different dimensions of EVA photovoltaic film, with the goal of casting light on the advantages and disadvantages of this material in comparison to other materials.

Advantages of EVA Photovoltaic Film

1.1 Superior Optical Transmittance: EVA demonstrates exceptional optical transparency, which enables a high proportion of sunlight to penetrate the module and reach the solar cells. This is one of the advantages of using EVA photovoltaic film. The total efficiency of the photovoltaic system and its ability to convert energy is improved by this feature.

1.2 In addition to having excellent adhesion properties, EVA also has the ability to facilitate the bonding process between the encapsulant and the solar cells. This adhesion helps to guarantee that the module maintains its structural integrity and increases its resilience to the pressures that are imposed by the environment.

1.3 EVA is a cost-effective material because, in comparison to other PV films, it has a significantly lower cost. This makes it a cost-effective material option. The fact that it is widely used and that its manufacturing techniques are well-established both contribute to its affordability.

1.4 Proven Reliability: EVA has been widely utilized in the photovoltaic (PV) industry for a number of decades, and its reliability over the long term has been established via field experience. The material has demonstrated a high level of resistance to deterioration and aging under typical operating conditions.

Disadvantages of EVA Photovoltaic Film

2.1 Potential Delamination: EVA may be sensitive to delamination, particularly in extreme climatic conditions or when vulnerable to moisture intrusion. This is especially true when the film is exposed to moisture. The performance of the module as well as its lifespan can be negatively impacted by delamination.

2.2 Limited Thermal Stability: Other photovoltaic films, such as POE and EPE, have a higher thermal stability than EVA, which has a lower thermal stability. The degradation of EVA over time can be caused by high temperatures, which can result in a reduction in the efficiency of the module.

2.3 In comparison to other PV films, EVA is more susceptible to potential-induced degradation (PID), which is a type of degradation that can occur when the voltage is applied. According to certain operating conditions, PID might lead to a loss of power as well as a reduction in the performance of the module.

2.4 UV deterioration: When exposed to sunlight over an extended period of time, EVA runs the risk of experiencing UV-induced deterioration, which can result in yellowing and a reduction in its optical transmittance. Due to this degradation, the module’s performance over the long term may be negatively impacted.

Comparison with Photovoltaic Films from the POE and EPE Categories

3.1 Comparing POE with EVA: In comparison to EVA, POE possesses superior thermal stability and provides more resistance to the possibility of delamination. On the other hand, EVA possesses superior adhesive qualities, has been demonstrated to be reliable, and has lower manufacturing costs.

3.2 Comparing EPE to EVA, it is clear that EPE is superior to EVA in terms of both its mechanical strength and its resistance to moisture. EVA, on the other hand, has superior adhesion and optical transmittance qualities than other materials. The decision between EPE and EVA is dictated by the particular module requirements as well as the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

In conclusion

EVA photovoltaic film has a number of benefits, some of which are a high optical transmittance, good adhesion, cost-effectiveness, and reliability that has been demonstrated. Delamination, low heat stability, susceptibility to PID, and UV degradation are some of the potential limits that must be taken into consideration. However, it is necessary to keep these limitations in mind. In order for industry professionals to make educated judgments on encapsulation materials, it is necessary for them to have a comprehensive grasp of the comparative advantages and disadvantages of EVA in relation to other PV films such as POE and EPE. These decisions should take into consideration elements such as module performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Continuous research and development efforts are being made with the purpose of addressing the limits of EVA and further improving the performance and dependability of photovoltaic modules.

COACE has a research and development team that is directed by several senior engineers and PhDs, and the company is dedicated to the research and development, production, and service of solar packaging film additives. The majority of users prefer COACES photovoltaic packaging film additives because they have the qualities of high transparency, low crystal point, high grafting rate, good fluidity, and high resistivity. In addition, these additives have a variety of other desirable qualities.
The organic anti-acidification masterbatch known as RM208 is manufactured by COACE. In contrast to the inorganic variety, it does not have any impact on the amount of light that is transmitted. It has a certain anti-PID action in addition to being an anti-acid and having the ability to capture cations.

It is important to note that in order to increase the success rate of photovoltaic packaging film encapsulation, we need to add appropriate photovoltaic packaging film additives (which are specifically applied to photovoltaic film-level hot melt adhesives). This is true regardless of the method that you choose to use.

The amount of photovoltaic panels that may be produced is significantly influenced by the degree of adhesion that exists between solar silicon crystal panels and photovoltaic packaging films. The addition of photovoltaic packaging film additives is the most important stage in the process of achieving this adhesion. Following the addition of additives, the adhesion between the film and the solar silicon crystal panel will be effectively improved, which will ultimately result in an increase in the productivity.