need UV stabilized, non brittle, clear, scratch resistant plastic 1

[loicalset]

Hello,

I'm looking for a recommendation for a plastic cover for an array of solar cells. The main features that I understand to be important are:

a. Scratch resistance (the unit will be used in rugged conditions)
b. Non-yellowing
c. UV stabilized - to protect the plastic from degrading in sunlight and to protect the solar cells from the same

Can anybody suggest a material for the plastic cover? Thanks.

 

[plastx]

Consider polycarbonate which by itself isn't scratch resistant but like forward lighting in automotive you can apply silicone topcoat whichs greatly improves this property.

Acrylic is another option, not as durable as polycarb, but more cost effective.

 

[unclesyd]

Here is a list of see-through plastics with some information.
I use the Lexan material in my greenhouse and it has survived 4 hurricanes. Lexan is GE's polycarbonate as mentioned above.

My neighbors solar panels are glazed with glass.

http://www.piedmontplastics.com/prodtype.asp?ID=10&TYPE=229

 

[EdStainless]

Polycarbonate is the toughest, and there are all sorts of special coatings used to improve durability.
Contact GE plastics.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Rust never sleeps
Neither should your protection

http://www.trent-tube.com/contact/Tech_Assist.cfm

 

[loicalset]

Thanks everyone!

 

[BrunoPuntzJones]

What about tempered glass?

 

[dgowans]

Bruno,

Star for you for not getting led by the nose into thinking plastic was the only way to go (I'm guilty!!!!). I was involved in a product design project a while back that involved a material selection choice between a clear plastic and tempered glass. The tempered glass was better from a functionality and cost standpoint but we had concerns about shipping (the product was going all over the world). If handling concerns or weight aren't show-stoppers, tempered glass just might work.

 

[sreid]

Take a look at Lexan MR-5

http://k-mac-plastics.com/plastic-rod/polycarbonate-lexan-mr5.htm#Typical MR10 Property Data

 

[loicalset]

Wow. That Lexan MR-5 looks amazing, but way out of my budget. I think I will give Arcylic or PC a shot. (It is a rugged application, so I think tempered glass is out). Thanks for the helpful information.