Recent developments of polymer-based encapsulants and backsheets for stable and high-performance silicon photovoltaic modules: materials nanoarchitectonics and mechanisms

Photovoltaic (PV) technology enables the conversion of solar energy into electricity. Si-based PV modules, which currently represent more than 90% of the global PV market, are expected to be in high demand in the future. To increase the efficiency of Si-based PV modules, it is important to improve not only the manufacturing technology and solar cell architecture but also the materials needed to produce the modules. Encapsulants and backsheets, which are used to ensure the long-term lifespan and stability of solar cells, play an equally important role in PV modules as solar cells. Research is being conducted on polymers used in encapsulants and backsheets to increase cell efficiency by using additives or composites with various materials. This article reviews the recent developments of materials and additives for polymer-based encapsulants and backsheets in Si-based PV modules. This review offers a detailed look at materials in encapsulation and backsheets for crystalline silicon photovoltaic (c-Si PV) modules, along with recent research advancements for performance enhancement.