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Q1 Permeation Products & Services Newsletter

Friday, March 31, 2023

 
 

Quarter 1 | April 2023

MARKET TRENDS


Push for Carbon Neutrality Means Increased Demand for Solar Energy

There is an increased interest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions both in the United States and worldwide. The recent US Federal Sustainability Plan outlines an ambitious path to power federal facilities with 100% carbon pollution-free electricity on a net annual basis by 2030. This plan will help accelerate a rapidly changing clean electricity sector, which includes the increasingly popular segment of solar energy.

Solar panels are designed to withstand exposure to environmental hazards, including rain, snow, and high humidity. However, over time, moisture can penetrate the protective layers of a solar panel and cause damage to the internal electrical components. This can lead to decreased efficiency and a shorter lifespan for the panel.

It is important to perform moisture barrier testing on solar panels to ensure that they will perform as expected and to avoid any potential problems down the line. By conducting regular moisture barrier testing, manufacturers and users of solar panels can ensure that their panels are of high quality and will provide reliable and efficient energy generation for many years to come.

To learn how AMETEK MOCON Permeation Analyzers can help with your solar panel applications, please refer to our new application note on the subject.

 

NEW TECHNOLOGY & PRODUCTS


  

AQUATRAN 3/38H Optional Upgrade for Testing up to 60°C

The AQUATRAN-W 3/38 H High Tech WVTR Analyzer with its unique 4 cell capability can test four barrier samples at the same time, providing twice the throughput of traditional 2-cell instruments. The dual film test cartridge is removable for easy sample preparation and interchangeability with the other test cartridge options that extend the testing range and capability of the instrument.

We have recently developed the option for testing up to 60 degrees C at 100% RH, a common testing environment for photovoltaic applications.

The 3/38 H features our patented long life modulated IR sensor, which is the basis for ASTM standard F1249. This analyzer provides highly accurate and repeatable test results within a wide detection range from 0.05 to 200 g/(m2*day).

The 4-cell capability allows for triplicate testing with or without a reference film in the same test. The option to run a known standard as a control improves confidence in the results. With 4 cells and simplified operation, the AQUATRAN 3/38 H is well suited for quality control laboratories performing a high volume of WVTR tests.

Click the link below to learn more.



LATEST APPLICATIONS


 
 

Solution for Testing Film Barrier Properties at High Temperatures

When developing electronics and solar panels, the R&D process should include moisture barrier testing at elevated temperatures. For example, solar panels are often exposed to different weather conditions, including both heat and humidity. A good moisture barrier should maintain its properties and performance even when exposed to extreme temperatures. Some tests must be conducted at high temperatures (e.g., 85°C) in accordance with the “damp heat test” portion of IEEE 1262 qualification specification for solar module exposure at 85°C and 85% RH for 1,000 hours. To test WVTR of film samples at elevated temperatures, there are several solutions: AMETEK MOCON Film Permeation Analyzers may be used with remote film test cells and the environmental test chamber. For 100% RH WVTR testing inside a high temperature chamber, the closed bottom remote test cell is recommended. The open bottom remote test cell is best suited for high-temperature testing of WVTR and OTR with chamber-generated RH.



Alternatively, the AQUATRAN 3/38 H is a high throughput WVTR analyzer with a 4-cell capacity and the option to upgrade to test samples at temperatures up to 60°C.

For techniques on how to set up testing with MOCON Next Generation Film Analyzers with remote test cells in a high temperature chamber, we have developed two technical notes.

For details on the closed bottom remote test cell, click here.

For details on the open bottom remote test cell, click here.
 


UPCOMING EVENTS/VIDEO LINKS

 



Video: The Cutting Edge of Sustainable Packaging



Permeation Product Manager Jeff Jackson was featured in a CCX media interview, where he explains why it's critical to evaluate barrier properties, which customers AMETEK MOCON serves, and the services we provide at the world's largest permeation testing lab.

Resource Library
Visit our Resource Library for white papers, application notes, technical notes and videos from the leading experts in permeation.
 
Upcoming 2023 Permeation Exhibitions, Conferences and Trade Shows

May 1-3, 2023 BevTech 2023



Permeation Application Specialist Mike Kragness will remotely join a number of other presenters at BevTech 2023, where he will be discussing green packaging initiatives and explaining the unique challenges that accompany recyclable or compostable packaging R&D..


May 4-10, 2023 Interpack Processing & Packaging



Join us in Düsseldorf for one of the largest global trade shows for the packaging sector and process industries.


June 6-8, 2023 Global Pouch Forum



We'll be at Booth 39 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Rosemont, Ill., June 6-8, for the Global Pouch Forum! We'll have permeation specialists on hand to meet you, learn about your operations, and answer your questions!