Materials and manufacturing processes for high-efficiency flexible photovoltaic modules

An overview of the materials, processing techniques, and characterisation procedures for flexible solar modules is presented. Flexible modules are lightweight, roll-able, and/or foldable for storage and transport. The design approach selected by the Australian National University incorporates very thin, high-efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells embedded between flexible coversheets, and supported by silicone encapsulant and flexible electrical contacts. The modules can be fabricated using a number of approaches including constructing the circuitry separately to the packaging, or using the packaging as both a protective layer and a base for circuitry.