Thin film photovoltaic modules

The term "Thin Film Photovoltaic Module" stands in contrast to the well known type of modules, which are composed of solid crystalline material (single or polycrystalline silicon). In case of thin film modules the elements substantially contributing to the function are various thin layers in nano- and micrometer range grown on suitable substrates such as wide glass or steal as well as polymer foil with thin-film technology in common in line or batch mass production. To complete the solar module the thin contact and light absorbing layers deposited on the substrate receive the encapsulation (like glass/glass or glass/foil), electrical contact (like metal small band, cable, plug, wiring boxes) and – if desired – a framework.