The tempered glass used in solar panels is a specialized version of regular tempered glass, engineered for maximum solar performance and environmental durability. The primary differences are its low iron content, anti-reflective (AR) coatings, and often a textured surface, which are all designed to maximize light transmission and efficiency.
Key Differences
| Feature | Tempered Glass in Solar Panels | Regular Tempered Glass (e.g., in windows) |
| Light Transmission | Very high (over 91%, up to 96% with AR coating) | Lower (around 85-90%) |
| Iron Content | Low iron (often ≤ 120 ppm) for less light absorption | Higher iron content (can be up to 1000 ppm) |
| Coatings | Features anti-reflective (AR) or anti-soiling coatings to reduce light reflection | Generally lacks specialized performance coatings |
| Surface | Often has a textured (suede-like) surface on the bottom to enhance adhesion with the EVA film during lamination | Typically smooth on both sides |
| Purpose | To transmit maximum sunlight to the solar cells for energy conversion while providing protection | Primarily for safety, strength, and environmental protection in general applications (e.g., windows, shower doors) |
| UV Resistance | Designed to resist UV degradation over many years of direct sun exposure | May not have the same level of engineered UV resistance for constant, direct exposure |
Summary
While both types of glass undergo a thermal tempering process that makes them four to five times stronger than standard annealed glass and causes them to break into small, blunt pieces for safety, the solar panel glass is a high-performance material optimized for energy generation. Its specialized composition and coatings ensure maximum light penetration and longevity in harsh outdoor conditions, features not typically found in regular tempered glass.
China Blue Solar, established in 2005, is not only a high quality custom solar module manufacturer, but also a provider of solar panel solution and technical support.
