Covestro receives polyurethane certificate for solar composite frames from TÜV SÜD

The certificate was issued by fellow German company TÜV SÜD, a major certification and testing organization for photovoltaic and smart energy products. TÜV SÜD has been deeply engaged in the Chinese photovoltaic and smart energy industry for over a decade, with multiple (including cooperative) testing centers and nearly a hundred technical experts in Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing, Yangzhou, Changzhou, Wuxi, Shenzhen, Beijing, Tianjin, Hainan and other regions.

The polyurethane certificate from TÜV SÜD serves as a fundamental certification for assessing the performance requirements of polymer materials in the photovoltaic industry. Under TÜV SÜD’s technical specification PPP 58208A, extensive testing was conducted on Covestro’s Baydur® polyurethane resin, evaluating its mechanical properties, substrate physical properties, flame retardant grades, and heat resistance. The resin excelled across all parameters during the rigorous testing process, says Covestro.

During the ceremony, Zhang Zhulin, Operations Director of the Smart Energy Department and President of the Institute for Reliability and Standardization at TÜV SÜD remarked, “This certificate not only acknowledges Covestro’s Baydur® resin for its exceptional performance and reliability, but also serves as a strong testament to Covestro’s R&D prowess in the field of polyurethane. TÜV SÜD remains dedicated to providing secure and sustainable solutions that safeguard individuals, the environment, and assets from technological risks, thereby fostering progress for businesses and society as a whole. We anticipate future collaborations with Covestro in advancing technology.”

The frame plays a vital role as an auxiliary material in solar panel modules. Its functions include safeguarding the glass edges, enhancing sealing performance, increasing overall mechanical strength, and facilitating the transportation and installation of photovoltaic modules. The performance of the frame directly impacts the service life of solar panel modules, aiming for an outdoor lifespan of approximately 25 years. Covestro has been developing innovative polymer solutions for the renewable energy industry over the years. In response to the solar industry’s demand for cost reduction and enhanced efficiency, Covestro introduced polyurethane composite frames made of Baydur® resin reinforced with glass fiber through a pultrusion process. The PU composite frames not only meet stringent mechanical properties and durability requirements, but also improve overall cost.

Furthermore, the PU composite frames exhibit superior resistance to acids, alkalis, and salt, surpassing the performance of aluminum alloy. This feature makes them highly suitable for high humidity and salt spray-prone areas. Additionally, as a non-metallic insulating material, the PU composite frames reduce the occurrence of Potential-Induced Degradation (PID), thereby improving the power generation efficiency of solar panels.

Markus Mingenbach, Vice President of PU Specialties at Covestro, said, “I’m very proud that Baydur® polyurethane has received one of the world’s first polyurethane certificates for solar composite frames from TÜV SÜD. At Covestro, we place paramount importance on product safety. TÜV SÜD is an esteemed technology partner, and this certificate significantly enhances the technical credibility of composite frames for mass production. Moving forward, Covestro will collaborate with diverse stakeholders throughout the value chain, fostering technological advancements in the photovoltaic industry, and actively contributing to the realization of a circular economy.”

Obtaining authoritative certification marks a crucial milestone for the widespread adoption of new materials in large-scale production. Covestro has now obtained another international authoritative photovoltaic material certification, further enhancing the prospects of polyurethane composite frames. With this achievement, PV module manufacturers now have a new and compelling alternative to traditional aluminum alloy frames, offering excellent performance and competitive pricing.