The application of fracture mechanics to failure analysis of photovoltaic solar modulesCracking of silicon solar cells and solar module transparent cover panels such as glass or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a major cause of photovoltaic solar module failure in field service. Silicon and cover materials are brittle, and cracking of these materials is expected to result from the extension of preexisting flaws under stress. Study of the cracking mechanisms is therefore an appropriate area for the application of fracture mechanics principles. In this study, fracture mechanics techniques were employed to identify the mode of crack propagation, to examine the fracture-initiating flaw, to estimate the nature and magnitude of fracture stress in the field, and to predict analytically the service lifetime. Recommendations for corrective actions are also made.
Document ID
19820061562
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Chen, C. P. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Leipold, M. H. (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Applied Mechanics Technology Section, Pasadena CA, United States)