Evolution of photovoltaic solar modules dark properties after exposition to electrical reverse stress current inducing thermal effect
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dark properties as a function of reverse current induced defects. Dark characteristics of solar modules are very essential in the understanding the functioning of these devices.
Design/methodology/approach
Reverse currents were applied on the photovoltaic (PV) modules to create defects. At several time intervals, dark characteristics along with surface temperature were measured.
Findings
Current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics furnished valuable data and threshold values for reverse currents. Maximum module surface temperatures were directly related to each of the induced reverse currents and to the amount of leakage current. Microstructural damages, in the form of hot spots and overheating, are linked to reverse current effects. Experimental evidence showed that different levels of reverse currents are a major degrading factor of the performance of solar cells and modules.
Originality/value
These results give a reliable method to predict most of the essential characteristics of a silicon solar cell or a module. Similar test could help predict the amount of degradation or even the failure of PV modules.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This project has been funded by the Lebanese National Council for Scientific Research.
Citation
Sidawi, J., Zaraket, C., Habchi, R., Bassil, N., Salame, C., Aillerie, M. and Charles, J.-P. (2014), "Evolution of photovoltaic solar modules dark properties after exposition to electrical reverse stress current inducing thermal effect", Microelectronics International, Vol. 31 No. 2, pp. 90-98. https://doi.org/10.1108/MI-10-2013-0051
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited