The Japan Industrial Technology Research Institute, in collaboration with Sustainable Titania Technology, has introduced a groundbreaking method to combat potential induced degradation (PID), a common issue that significantly reduces the efficiency of solar cell modules. This innovative technique involves applying a low-cost, titanium dioxide (TiO₂)-based composite metal compound thin film onto glass substrates using a simple and scalable "Doctor Blade" method. The process includes coating the solution, spreading it evenly across the surface, and then heat-treating the coated substrate at temperatures ranging from 200°C to 450°C for 15 minutes.
This technology has shown promising results in real-world testing. When applied to a 18cm×18cm solar module, the PID test—conducted under extreme conditions of -1000V, 85°C, and 2 hours—revealed minimal reduction in conversion efficiency. In contrast, standard modules experienced a drastic drop in efficiency, from 15.9% to just 0.6%. Researchers believe the TiO₂ film effectively blocks the diffusion of sodium ions from the glass, which is a primary cause of PID.
Looking ahead, the team plans to refine the material composition, optimize the film thickness, and adjust the deposition conditions to enhance the effectiveness of the technology. Additionally, they aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms of PID suppression and conduct further tests on large-area solar modules.
The findings will be presented at the “Production Research Institute Photovoltaic Power Generation Engineering Research Center Results Report 2013,†held at the Tsukuba International Conference Center from June 4 to June 5, 2013. This development marks a significant step forward in improving the reliability and longevity of solar power systems, offering a cost-effective and practical solution to an industry-wide challenge.
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