Strategy for simple, on-site failure analysis: investigating bubbles and burn marks in backsheets of PV modules
Käßer B, De Oliveira AKV, Mashkov O, Nascimento L, Rüther R, Peters IM, Buerhop-Lutz C (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Journal
Book Volume: 17
Article Number: 7
Abstract
We present a practical, field-deployable workflow for the identification and analysis of localized polymer degradation in photovoltaic modules, observed as bubbles and burn marks in three multi-MWp power plants in Brazil and Germany. The approach combines high-throughput screening—visual inspection, infrared thermography, ultraviolet fluorescence imaging, and serial-number mapping—with selective in-depth analyses of representative modules using electroluminescence, current–voltage measurements, and near-infrared absorption spectroscopy. The workflow enables efficient detection of anomalies across large installations, while confirmatory tests validate root causes on a limited subset. Defects occurred in about 3–4% of inspected modules and were concentrated in the upper and lower cell rows. Although all sites experienced similar partial shading, anomalies appeared only in PET-based backsheets with PVDF or PVF outer layers, highlighting material-dependent susceptibility. No immediate electrical or safety impact was found, but continued monitoring is advised to mitigate future reliability risks. The presented methodology offers a scalable, drone-compatible framework for early-stage field detection of polymer degradation.
Involved external institutions
Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Käßer, B., De Oliveira, A.K.V., Mashkov, O., Nascimento, L., Rüther, R., Peters, I.M., & Buerhop-Lutz, C. (2026). Strategy for simple, on-site failure analysis: investigating bubbles and burn marks in backsheets of PV modules. EPJ Photovoltaics, 17. https://doi.org/10.1051/epjpv/2025029
MLA:
Käßer, Bernhardt, et al. "Strategy for simple, on-site failure analysis: investigating bubbles and burn marks in backsheets of PV modules." EPJ Photovoltaics 17 (2026).
BibTeX: Download