Comparative study of sand erosion of backsheet of PV modules

Efficient and uninhibited production of power from PV module depends on all parts of the module performing without getting degraded. Continuous flow of sand particles in deserts can erode backsheet during day and night alike. Erosion of this kind is insidious in nature and can curtail the longevity of PV modules. In the current study, erosion rates have been compared for two backsheets from different manufacturers when eroded by Indian sand. Erosion mechanisms for each backsheet for different sets of experimental conditions are presented in this work. It has been found that the tensile properties of the backsheet play a critical role in influencing the erosion.