Saint-Gobain Solar has launched a new ‘LightSwitch’ portfolio of solutions, including LightSwitch Frontsheet, LightSwitch Encapsulant, and LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete, as well as a design program for photovoltaic module manufacturers. A high-performance and durable alternative to conventional materials, LightSwitch film products provide PV module manufacturers with enhanced performance, durability, and a reduction in total systems cost. The LightSwitch design program was developed to assist module manufacturers in bringing a lightweight PV product to market.

Problem

PV module manufacturers are seeking new materials that retain performance criteria for long-life but also enable new products to be developed to meet different applications.

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Solution

LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete is a pre-laminate that incorporates two Saint-Gobain Solar products — LightSwitch Frontsheet ETFE and LightSwitch Encapsulant EVA — in one convenient package. Frontsheet Complete delivers on the benefits of its two components, as well as improvements in productivity and reduced cost .LightSwitch Frontsheet is a melt processable fluoropolymer providing superior weatherability and UV resistance, ideal for flexible and lightweight solar modules. Tough and reliable, these highly transparent films offer improved resistance to chemicals and weathering, low flammability, stress crack resistance, and insulating properties. It is also surface-treated to ensure superb adhesion to LightSwitch Encapsulant. LightSwitch Encapsulant provides cushioning and structural support to solar cells and circuitry, while maximizing transmission of sunlight for energy conversion. With outstanding weathering properties, it protects the solar module throughout its lifecycle.

Applications

LightSwitch Encapsulant provides cushioning and structural support to solar cells. LifeSwitch Encapsulant is suitable for both flexible and rigid modules, with excellent adhesion to other PV module components.

Platform

The portfolio also includes the LightSwitch Module Design Program and expert engineering design services for PV module manufacturers. Saint-Gobain Solar offers LightSwitch customers the combined experience and expertise of its design engineers and materials science experts, developing lightweight modules that meet exact customer specifications.