The solar backsheet might not be the most visible component of a solar panel, but it plays a vital role in ensuring the panel’s durability, efficiency, and reliability. As a leading solar panel manufacturer, we aim to provide insights into the critical role of backsheet materials and their impact on the overall functionality of solar panels. This is especially important for wholesalers and dealers, who must understand the significance of backsheets in selecting the right products for their markets.
Table of Contents
What is a solar Backsheet and Why is it Important?
Environmental Protection: Shields against UV radiation, moisture, and dirt.
Electrical Insulation: Prevents electrical leaks and maintains safe
Mechanical Support: Adds structural stability to the panel, ensuring it withstands harsh conditions. operation.
An improperly chosen backsheet can lead to issues such as efficiency loss, increased maintenance, and a shorter lifespan for the panel, directly affecting customer satisfaction.
Core Materials Used in solar Backsheets
The typical backsheet consists of three layers:
Inner Layer: Positioned adjacent to the cells for electrical insulation.
Core Layer: Usually PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), offering durability and strength.
Outer Layer: Exposed to the environment, providing UV and weather resistance.
Common Materials in Backsheet Construction
PVF (Polyvinyl Fluoride): Highly resistant to UV and weathering, commonly used in premium panels (e.g., TPT structure).
PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride): Offers durability and cost efficiency for moderate climates.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): The most widely used core material due to its strength but requires hydrolysis resistance for humid conditions.
Non-Fluorinated Alternatives: Materials like AOE and OOO are environmentally friendly but less durable under extreme UV exposure.
Backsheet Production Processes.
Composite Method：Layers are bonded with adhesives for flexibility and durability.Commonly used for TPT, KPK, and other traditional backsheet types.
Coating Method:Applies fluorine coating directly onto PET substrates without adhesives.Used for advanced double-fluorine-coated backsheets like CPC
Co-Extrusion Method:Fuses multiple polymer layers in one step.Creates lightweight, eco-friendly backsheets like AOE and OOO, though these are less common.
Types of Backsheets and Their Characteristics
Double-Fluorinated Backsheets:Example: TPT, KPKProvides superior UV and weather resistance.Ideal for desert or tropical climates
Single-Fluorinated Backsheets:Example: TPE, KPE;Offers moderate protection at a lower cost.Suitable for residential or commercial projects in stable climates.
Fluorine-Free Backsheets：Example: AOE, OOO.Lightweight and environmentally friendly.Best for controlled environments or lower-stress applications.
| solar Backsheet Type | Technical Features | Technical Weaknesses | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPT | Good UV resistance, proven 25-year warranty | Weak adhesive strength in materials, low inner layer strength | High |
| KPK | Good UV resistance | Poor water resistance | High |
| TPE/KPE/TPC/KPC | Good UV resistance | Water vapor permeation resistance, low inner layer UV resistance | Medium |
| TPO/KPO/TPX/KPX | Good water vapor resistance, hydrolysis resistance | Low inner layer UV resistance | Medium |
| CPC | Good dispersibility | Poor water vapor resistance, inner layer prone to cracking | Low |
| PPE | Good water vapor resistance, hydrolysis resistance | Poor UV resistance of outer and inner layers | Low |
| AOE/OOO | Good water vapor resistance, hydrolysis resistance | Poor UV resistance of outer and inner layers | Low |
How to Choose the Right Backsheet for Your solar Panels
Consider Environmental Conditions
High Humidity: Use backsheets with hydrolysis-resistant PET, such as PCT 60-grade.
High UV Exposure: Double-fluorinated backsheets are ideal.
Match System Voltage with Backsheet Thickness
Panels operating at 1000V require a minimum DTI of 150μm, while 1500V systems need 300μm.
Focus on Specific Applications
Portable applications (RVs, boats): Choose lightweight, durable backsheets like Sungold’s PA621 series.
Agricultural settings: Require high ammonia resistance.
Rooftop installations: Emphasize fire resistance and mechanical support.
Why solar Backsheet Quality Matters to Wholesalers and Distributors
Investing in premium backsheet materials directly addresses the common challenges faced by wholesalers and distributors:
Minimized Warranty Claims：Low-quality backsheets often lead to issues such as delamination, yellowing, or efficiency loss, resulting in increased warranty claims. These claims not only strain your relationship with end-users but also increase operational costs as you handle replacements or repairs.
Improved Panel Longevity for End-Users：Distributors often face complaints from customers about panels failing prematurely due to poor environmental resistance or hot spots. Premium backsheets ensure durability under harsh conditions, reducing these failures and saving your customers from expensive replacements.
Strengthened Market Competitiveness：Wholesalers operate in a competitive market where end-users demand high-performing, long-lasting panels. Offering reliable products with robust backsheets differentiates your brand, enabling you to win customer trust and secure long-term partnerships.
Final thoughts
The solar backsheet is a vital component of a solar panel, ensuring durability and performance across diverse applications. At Sungold, we focus on creating reliable and efficient solar solutions to meet the unique needs of our partners and their customers. Together, we can drive the future of sustainable energy.
