German researchers develop coating to strengthen solar panels and repair microcracks
By Eve
German solar firm EXXERGY and subsidiary EXXOSQEL, working with the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research (ISC), have developed a coating for solar panel glass that hinders microscopic crack progression. Laboratory tests showed strength increases of up to 4 times for 2 millimetre thick glass samples and up to 7 times for 1 millimetre samples, compared to untreated glass. The coating creates chemical bonds in microscopic cracks, enabling thinner, lighter glass without compromising durability, addressing the challenge that glass can account for up to 80% of a solar panel's total weight.
Why it matters
Lighter solar panels reduce structural requirements and installation costs for rooftop and carport EV charging sites that integrate solar generation. The technology could enable more cost effective solar canopy designs at charging hubs, where weight and material costs are key procurement considerations.
Source
- Source
- https://www.donanimhaber.com/gunes-panellerinde-catlaklari-iyilestiren-kaplama-gelistirildi--211887
- Original title
- “Alman araştırmacılar, güneş panellerini güçlendiren ve çatlakları iyileştiren kaplama geliştirdi”
- Published
- 21 October 2026
In this story
- Topic
- Grid & Energy
- Place
- Germany
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