Apparatus and method for extending polyolefin containing photovoltaic panel life span

#Not applicable.

#The present invention is generally related to polyolefin containing panels, such as solar panels, liquid crystal display (LCD) panels, or light-emitting diode (LED) panels. In an embodiment the present invention is related to extending the life span of organic solar panel technologies.

#Global interest in renewable energy sources has seen an increase in recent times. Due to environmental factors, geopolitical concerns and energy costs, options are being explored to replace our dependence on fossil fuels. Some of the various renewable energy sources include photovoltaic cells, or solar cells. Photovoltaic cells are an attractive option partially because of their potential to capture the large amounts of energy emitted from the sun and convert it to electricity.

#FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an organic photovoltaic cell.

#FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a protected polymer photovoltaic cell.

#FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a polyolefin-based overwrap.

#Disclosed herein are ways of extending the life span of a polyolefin containing panel by incorporating an oxygen scavenger composition into a substrate layer of a polyolefin containing panel. The polyolefin containing panel can be selected from the group consisting of an organic photovoltaic cell (OPVC), a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, and combinations thereof. The polyolefin containing panel can also include a trigger mechanism that is capable of initiating oxygen scavenging upon a triggering event, for example, exposure to UV radiation or moisture. Also disclosed herein are methods of extending the life span of OPV solar panels through the use of oxygen scavenging technology.

#Organic photovoltaic cells and other polyolefin containing panels can be sensitive to oxygen and water in the atmosphere and exposure to oxygen may reduce their shelf life and/or useful life. Oxygen absorbers can be used to reduce the oxygen content, however, these oxygen absorbers are typically iron based and require the presence of moisture to function properly. Similarly, ascorbic acid and enzymes have been used to reduce oxygen, however, these also generally require a high level of humidity to function properly.

#Photovoltaic cells (PVC), or solar cells, include a semiconductor diode that converts visible light, infrared radiation (IR), and/or ultraviolet radiation (UV) into direct current (DC) electricity. Organic photovoltaic cells (OPVC) refer to photovoltaic cells that use conductive organic polymers or small organic molecules for light absorption and charge transport. In an embodiment, the OPVC include an anode, a cathode, and a photoactive region between the anode and the cathode. The photoactive region of the photosensitive device is the region that absorbs radiation in order to generate an electrical current.