Isovoltaic’s ‘ICOSOLAR’ TPA HR backsheet offers harsh climate protection

February 14, 2014
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Isovoltaic’s recently introduced PV module backsheet combines both ‘Tedlar’ and ‘Polyamide’ materials to provide improved characteristics for field durability and module efficiency increase, especially in challenging conditions.

Problem

Solar cells require effective protection via the backsheet to be able to efficiently convert sunlight into useable energy. Adhesion values between the layers of the backsheet and from the backsheet to EVA are critical, as delamination can seriously reduce the module service lifetime. The effective reflectivity of solar backsheets can also influence the conversion efficiency of a module.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

Solution

ICOSOLAR TPA HR is claimed to provide both service life time through material selection and improved module efficiency through high reflectivity.The unique resin formula has a background that is said to have already been in more than 25 years of use in TPT-backsheets like ICOSOLAR 2442. The latest rendition is said to assure layer adhesion that works after 3500 h damp heat testing, which is inline with previous formulations. The addition of the special polyamide film on the cell side provides exceptionally high reflectivity and adhesion of up to 100 N/cm (measured by leading tier one module manufacturers). The field-proven Tedlar outer layer features high resistance to UV and weathering. The PET core provides mechanical stability, electrical insulation and a water vapor barrier.

Applications

c-Si PV module backsheets to protect solar cells, especially when used in challenging conditions.

Platform

Isovoltaic offers both proven TPT-composite films (ICOSOLAR 2442) and films based on polyamide (ICOSOLAR APA 3G), which is UL recognised and TÜV type approved and has already been certified by several module manufacturers for use in their modules.

Availability

Currently available.

Read Next

February 3, 2026
Resilience against supply chain risks in Europe comes in the form of early action, a panel at Solar Finance and Investment Europe agreed.
February 3, 2026
Integrating more private investment into Europe’s grid infrastructure will be a necessity if the continent's bottlenecks are to be overcome.
Premium
February 3, 2026
PV Talk: Vote Solar’s Sachu Constantine discusses the growing role of state and local governments in driving forward clean energy policy in the United States.
February 3, 2026
There has been a 'clear cooling' of appetite for new renewable energy investments in the US, according to speakers at SFIEU 2026.
February 2, 2026
Independent power producer (IPP) TerraForm Power has acquired a 1.56GW solar project in Lee County, Illinois from Hexagon Energy.
February 2, 2026
Private equity firm Younan Company has launched an 880MW solar-plus-storage project in California, marking its entry into utility-scale solar PV in the US.

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK
Upcoming Webinars
February 18, 2026
9am PST / 5pm GMT
Solar Media Events
March 24, 2026
Dallas, Texas
Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA