An Arrhenius approach to estimating organic photovoltaic module weathering acceleration factors

A mathematical model based on the Arrhenius equation is used to determine the acceleration of temperature dependent degradation processes affecting the performance of polymeric PV modules in artificial weathering over two benchmark climates. To take into account the natural variability of stress factors in outdoor environments, equivalent temperatures corresponding to photothermally and thermally activated degradation processes were calculated using detailed temperature and radiation data for these modules. Temperature and radiation data for the accelerated laboratory weathering part were derived from the implementation of an international standard for the weathering of plastics. Depending on the value of the activation energy and the reference outdoor location, acceleration factors ranging from 3 to 11 were calculated.

Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Accelerated weathering techniques well suited to help predict OPV lifetimes. ► Acceleration of temperature dependent degradation processes modeled. ► Introduction of effective/equivalent temperatures to mitigate natural variability. ► Photothermal and pure thermal degradation processes separately addressed. ► Acceleration factors up to 11 for tropical environments.