Applications for 3M Solar Energy Products: Crystalline Silicon, Flexible Film, and Thin Film

3M™ Solar Light Redirecting Film (LRF) is a microstructured reflective film that is applied over cell tabbing ribbons to recapture a significant portion of light that would otherwise be reflected out of the module. Use of LRF over tabbing ribbons results in 1.5–2.5% increased module power by increasing the amount of light on the cells. The product is designed to be easily integrated into automated module assembly processes.

3M™ provides a wide range of tapes designed specifically for use in PV modules. Durable 3M™ tapes ensure reliable, long-term application for everything from cosmetic masking to cell positioning.

3M™ Products for Solar Energy (PDF, 2.10 MB)

3M™ Tape and Adhesive Solutions for Solar Energy (PDF, 1.91 MB)

3M™ Bundling Tape 4414 (PDF, 72.80 KB)

3M™ Solar Encapsulant Films are fast-cure encapsulants designed to work with PV modules. They protect against UV damage and weathering, while allowing broad band light transmission to solar cells. Conformable and flexible film is easy to laminate and features a low shrinkage rate. The films offer excellent broadband light transparency, strong adhesion and elasticity properties required for solar cell encapsulation.

3M™ Products for Solar Energy (PDF, 2.10 MB)

3M™ Solar Encapsulant Film EVA9110T and EVA9120B - EVA Encapsulant for High Efficiency Solar Cells (PDF, 275.44 KB)

Solar Encapsulant Film PO8510 (PDF, 100.04 KB)

3M™ Solar Encapsulant Film PO8110 (PDF, 107.94 KB)

UL-Certified 3M™ Solar Acrylic Foam Tapes can provide durable attachment solutions for solar module frames. The immediate holding feature allows for high throughput during manufacturing. Compared to sealants, there is no need to clean off any excess material, resulting in less labor and a more professional look.

3M™ Solar Edge Tape 1060 is specifically designed for solar module sealing and protection. It consists of high-quality acrylic foam adhesive with superior weathering black backing film. Solar Edge Tape 1060 may be used to bond a variety of substrates.

3M™ Solar Edge Tape 1060 (PDF, 86.32 KB)

3M™ offers a variety of 3M™ EPE Films for cosmetic masking applications in the fabrication of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) modules. When solar modules are incorporated into roofs and walls it is desirable to cover electrical connections so that the module has a uniform and appealing appearance. 3M™ EPE Films can be used to cover bus bars in photovoltaic modules to make the appearance more uniform.

3M™ Products for Solar Energy (PDF, 2.10 MB)

3M™ EPE Films Application Guidelines (PDF, 87.52 KB)

3M™ EPE Films (PDF, 70.12 KB)

3M™ Dielectric Tapes perform as reliable insulators when used in conjunction with buses/foils in thin film solar panels. They consist of a polymeric film with acrylic adhesive on one or both sides. These tapes can be applied at high speeds using automation equipment, resulting in high productivity during panel manufacturing.

3M™ Tapes for Solar Panel Fabrication (PDF, 1.91 MB)

3M™ Double Coated Dielectric Tape 3514 (PDF, 53.69 KB)

The 3M™ Anti-Reflection (AR) Coating portfolio includes water-based and solvent-based products that help increase front glass transmission, thereby raising solar module efficiency. The water-based products provide a hydrophilic surface, which has been demonstrated to provide a degree of anti-soiling performance in the field. Designed specifically for OEM use, the products are applied to glass prior to tempering, which increases the coating’s durability and resistance to UV, humidity, and abrasion. The products are formulated to apply uniformly, thus reducing the rate of coating defects.