Abstract:
Broadband reflectors include a UV-reflective multilayer optical film and a VIS/IR-reflective layer. In various embodiments, the VIS/IR reflective layer may be a reflective metal layer or a multilayer optical film. Concentrated solar power systems and methods of harnessing solar energy using the broadband reflectors and optionally comprising a celestial tracking mechanism are also disclosed.
Abstract:
The present disclosure generally relates to durable solar mirror films, methods of making durable solar mirror films, and constructions including durable solar mirror films. Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods of making solar mirror films that do not include a reflective layer material across the entire weatherable layer. Some embodiments relate to a method of making a solar mirror film involving providing a weatherable layer having a first major surface and a second major surface; depositing a reflective material on the first major surface of the weatherable layer; and removing a portion of the reflective material (e.g., ultrasonically, mechanically, or thermally).
Abstract:
The present disclosure generally relates to photovoltaic modules and methods of making photovoltaic modules. One exemplary photovoltaic module includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells including a first photovoltaic cell and a second photovoltaic cell spaced apart from one another to form an area that is free of photovoltaic cells; an electrical connector connecting at least the first and second photovoltaic cells; and a light directing medium positioned on at least a portion of the first photovoltaic cell.
Abstract:
The present disclosure generally relates to photovoltaic modules and methods of making photovoltaic modules. One exemplary photovoltaic module includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells including a first photovoltaic cell and a second photovoltaic cell spaced apart from one another to form an area that is free of photovoltaic cells; an electrical connector connecting at least the first and second photovoltaic cells; and a light directing medium positioned on at least a portion of the first photovoltaic cell.
Abstract:
A photovoltaic module including a backsheet and a plurality of photovoltaic cells overlying the backsheet is disclosed. The backsheet has open areas not covered by the photovoltaic cells. The backsheet may be a reflective backsheet that includes a multilayer optical film, or the photovoltaic module may include a reflective multilayer optical film separate from the backsheet. The multilayer optical film has an optical stack with a plurality of alternating first and second optical layers having different indices of refraction and a left band edge in a range from 600 nanometers to 900 nanometers. The multilayer optical film reflects at least a portion of light in a range of wavelengths that corresponds with the absorption bandwidth of the photovoltaic cell.