Up until recently, plastics have played a secondary role in solar panel production. For example, solar panel plastic sheets or films can be used to help reduce internal humidity or protect the glass and silicon panels underneath from the environment. Mainly, though, plastic is used for connecting components, including thrust washers, electrical insulators, pipes, valves and other fittings.
Thanks to modern developments, however, plastic solar cells are being developed that can serve as the photovoltaic material on their own, rather than using silicon and glass elements. This will help make solar panels, and solar-based energy, even more affordable, durable and accessible than ever before.
Which Plastics are Used in Solar Panels?
In terms of a photovoltaic plastic solar panel, a unique blend of organic polymers and other small molecules has been designed to absorb light and transport it through the cell in order to produce electricity. These blends are still in the experimental phase, so they aren’t widely used in standard solar energy arrays yet. But, in the not-so-distant future, they may replace the solar panel glass or plastic sheeting we’re familiar with.
As we mentioned above, however, plastic is used for a wide variety of other solar panel components. The most common kinds of plastics used for solar panels include:
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): A sturdy plastic used for solar panel braces and attachments.
- Acrylic/Plexiglass: Used for protective and insulating films to make panels more durable and reduce internal humidity.
- Polycarbonate: Used as glazing to protect glass and other fragile elements from impact. Can also be used for sturdy components like rotational bushings and bearings.
- Polypropylene: Often used as a film to protect glass panels or as a base material for plastic solar cells.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comment section.
Do give our blog a read for all your solar-related questions. You can also check out other interesting updates on solar on our Facebook page.(facebook.com/zunroof)
Reach out to us by filling the form below: