Placement student mechanical testing for solar panels
Background
The PV Modules & Applications group of ECN Solar Energy focuses on developing technologies and processes for interconnection and encapsulation of crystalline and thin-film PV modules (solar panels). Developments are aimed at reducing the cost, increasing the efficiency and maximising the energy yield of the module. The work involves testing and assessment of alternative materials for interconnection and encapsulation. This is combined with developing technologies allowing a higher degree of integration between the cell and the module with the aim of reducing the overall cost and increasing the overall efficiency.
An important challenge in developing new photovoltaic module technologies is to assess the long-term stability of the devices. The goal being to be able to guarantee safe and high performance operation of the installed PV modules for up to 25 years. In order to simulate modules' behaviour in the field, accelerated ageing tests such as damp-heat (85°C , 85% R.H) or thermal cycling (-40°C to +85°C) have been developed and are standardized in IEC 61215 and UL 1703 protocols. Prior, during, and after completion of the accelerated testing, non-destructive (I-V, electroluminescence, infra-red thermography) and destructive analysis can be carried out ; the last ones are useful to monitor any evolution in the mechanical properties of the modules, e.g interlayer adhesion. The most common of these destructive tests is the so called peel test. New tests methods are currently being developed to bring more information on the interfacial strength degradation throughout accelerated ageing test; amongst them, the "core-shear" system, where mechanical strength vs twist angle can be recorded after gluing a metal piece on the module rear side.
On top of an existing peel-test (90°; 180°) set-up used for material qualification and modules failure analysis, a new core-shear system has been built and installed at ECN. Recently a lot of effort has been put in optimising the sample preparation and measuring method. The system is now ready for data collection and comparison with peel-test set-up.
The Project
The first, theoretical, part of the work will consist in acquiring a broad range of knowledge in the field of photovoltaic modules with a focus on accelerated testing, failure analysis and destructive test methods. A second theoretical part will be modelling (using finite element calculations) of the expected stresses as function of the applied forces in several sandwiches of material combinations. Then, practical work will focus on the use of the ECN core-shear set-up and test method to investigate the strength of modules as function of variable materials (type encapsulant, Backsheet foils) and changed process parameters (storage time encapsulant, lamination process). This will be carried out at sample level as well as on functional modules (backsheet, encapsulant, cells, glass). The results will be reported in the form of a written report at the end of the project and in several presentations during your internship period.
The Applicant
You are a final year student on a material or mechanical science degree course. You are able to perform modelling using finite element calculations and set up and perform lab scale experiments. As part of a team focused on development and implementation of innovative technology, your approach is pragmatic and flexible. You have good communication skills in English, both verbally and in writing.
ECN offers
We offer you an interesting assignment in a challenging work environment for a period of at least 6 months. You will be able to deepen your knowledge of new developments in the PV industry. Furthermore ECN offers support for finding accommodation and has a financial compensation programme for students.
For more information please contact Mr. M. Goris +31 224-564505 or by email goris@ecn.nl.
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