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Transparent Electrodynamic Screen (EDS) Films - Industrial Production and Lamination onto PV Modules and CSP Mirrors for Self Cleaning Function

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 September 2020

Dylan Jones
Affiliation:
Boston University
Annie Rabi Bernard
Affiliation:
Boston University
Merlin Hoffman
Affiliation:
Boston University
Shannon Chang
Affiliation:
Boston University
Celia Wilkins
Affiliation:
Boston University
Ryan Eriksen
Affiliation:
Boston University
Carolyn Ellinger
Affiliation:
Eastman Kodak Company
Sean Garner
Affiliation:
Corning Research&Development Corporation
Andreas Rothacker
Affiliation:
Tomark-Worthen
Chris Thellen
Affiliation:
Tomark-Worthen
Malay Mazumder
Affiliation:
Boston University
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Abstract

Electrodynamic screens (EDS) are transparent dielectric films, consisting of embedded, interdigitated parallel conducting electrodes that can be integrated onto the optical surface of a photovoltaic (PV) module or concentrated solar power (CSP) mirror for their self-cleaning function to mitigate the energy yield losses caused by soiling. The EDS film removes dust particles using electrostatic forces thus eliminating the need for water or robotic devices to clean the solar devices. In this paper we report the methods experimented to produce EDS film stacks integrated onto individual PV modules (33 cm x 28 cm) for solar field applications using an industrial vacuum lamination process for the purpose of outdoor testing. Steps taken to optimize the lamination process to provide high optical transparency, resistance against moisture ingress and to withstand dust abrasion are described. The experiments performed to arrive at the optimal curing temperature, curing time, and vacuum pressure maintenance for the lamination process are elaborated. Details on the construction, functionality and operation of the outdoor testing units are provided. Measurements of the optical transmission efficiency (TE) and output power restoration (OPR) of the EDS film stack laminated onto PV modules are presented along with a model for full-scale lamination with an aim for advancing the EDS film technology as a commercially available product.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), 2020, published on behalf of Materials Research Society by Cambridge University Press

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