PVDF, once the dominant outer layer material with over 50% share until 2020, dropped to 7% in 2024 due to rising demand from the battery sector and cost pressures
Coating-based CPC backsheets have steadily gained share, reaching 68% in 2024, driven by cost advantages and improved reliability
Non-fluorinated backsheets, including PET and PP-based variants, rose to 29% market share in 2024, benefiting from the decline in film-based fluoropolymers
The TaiyangNews Backsheets & Encapsulation Market Survey 2024/25 categorizes backsheets into 2 types: fluoropolymer and non-fluoropolymer. While backsheets are multi-layered by design and can vary in structure, this classification provides a clear basis for analysis. Fluoropolymer backsheets include at least one layer containing fluoropolymer chemistry and have commonly been used due to their weather resistance. Non-fluoropolymer backsheets, which are halogen-free, have seen increased adoption since 2022, influenced by cost and regulatory factors. Our previous article discussed different backsheet structures used in PV modules, along with a review of available component materials. This article continues that examination with a focus on recent developments and material trends (see Backsheet Component Market – Fluoropolymers To Coatings).
PVDF was the leading composite for the outer layer of the backsheet with more than 50% market share until 2020. However, starting in 2021, the demand for PVDF resin from the power storage industry started increasing, as the polymer is also used in lithium-ion batteries. As a result, PVDF-based backsheet prices nearly doubled. However, prices reduced significantly towards the end of the year to around 2.5 RMB/m2 for 20 μm film thickness from about 5 RMB/m2 in 2023.
Fumotech, a top player in the pure PVDF film market with about 70% market share, says the overall volume has decreased significantly. According to the company, PVDF commanded a 20% to 30% share of the total backsheet market in 2023. However, it is still preferred in challenging conditions such as extreme heat and UV exposure.
PVF, or Tedlar, exclusively supplied by DuPont, was the leading component of the fluoropolymer backsheet construction. The undeniable advantage of Tedlar is its proven track record, thus commanding a price premium. However, the current environment in the solar industry has led to harsh cost-cutting strategies, and Tedlar no longer fits the mainstream product manufacturing equation, thus limited to only a few niche applications. As a side note, DuPont also promotes a Tedlar-based frontsheet.
PET is yet another important backsheet component. In addition to being the universal core layer, the chemistry of the polyester film is also optimized with UV protection attributes to be used as the outer layer. DuPont Teijin Films (DTF), in close cooperation with Coveme, played an instrumental role in the development and commercialization of PET-based backsheets. However, as a result of DuPont selling its stake to Celanese, the Mylar-branded PET solutions for the PV industry are now under Mylar Specialty Film. Its UVH PET range is specially designed for enhanced UV barrier and hydrolysis resistance properties to serve as the outer layer of the backsheet. The company also supplies a Mylar core PET film, which, according to DTF, has been used since the birth of the solar industry and can complement any outer layer. In an interview with TaiyangNews, during REI 2024, Alessandro Anderlini, head of Coveme’s photovoltaic division, shared insights into the company’s latest innovations showcased at the REI Expo 2024 (see Coveme's Italian-Engineered PV Backsheets Featured At REI 2024).
All-PP, although not as widespread as the above chemistries, is a coextruded backsheet construction based on PP, which is also commercially available, and mainly offered by Endurans. The technology has several benefits, including a monolayer structure and low-cost manufacturing. In terms of market share, the majority of companies we spoke to confirmed that the market is predominantly led by CPC. In 2023, CPC backsheets held approximately 55% of the market, followed by 15% for PVDF and 24% for non-fluoropolymer chemistries, while Tedlar accounted for 6%. In 2024, film-based backsheets further declined in prominence, with CPC increasing its share to 68%, while non-fluoropolymer backsheets rose to 29%, gaining from the decline of film-based fluoropolymers – PVDF at 7% and Tedlar at 3%.
As India aims to strengthen its solar PV manufacturing industry, TaiyangNews Solar Technology Conference India 2025 will provide a platform for experts to discuss cutting-edge advancements. To be held on April 10-11, 2025, in New Delhi, the event will feature technologists, scientists, and engineers driving innovation in the sector.
Day 2 will feature a session on "Advancing Solar Module Performance and Reliability Through the Right Bill of Materials." InYoung Suh, Director of Business Development, HANGZHOU FIRST, and Dr. Khushbu Patel, AGM, Business Development ALISHAN GREEN ENERGY, will discuss innovations in encapsulants and backsheets. Midway Bird special tickets are available here.
The text is an excerpt from the latest TaiyangNews Market Survey on Backsheets & Encapsulation Materials 2024/25, which can be downloaded for free here.