Abstract: A method of preparing a multi-layer assembly, or of protecting a surface of a multi-layer substrate from damage and/or contamination and/or debris, said method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a composite film comprising a polymeric base layer having a first and second surface and disposed on the first surface thereof a polymeric protective layer having a first surface and a second surface such that the first surface of the said base layer is in contact with the first surface of the polymeric protective layer, wherein said polymeric protective layer comprises an ethylene-based copolymer, and preferably wherein the polymeric base layer comprises a polyester derived from one or more diol(s) and one or more dicarboxylic acid(s); (ii) removing said polymeric protective layer from the first surface of said base layer; (iii) disposing on the exposed first surface of said base layer one or more functional layers to provide a multi-layer substrate, wherein the, or at least the uppermost, functional layer compri

Abstract: When organic photovoltaic components are laser-structured, protuberances occur, which can protrude significantly beyond the height of the layered stack. The invention describes a technique for stabilising the laser-structured protuberances so that further processing of the semi-finished product is possible, and describes the integration of said product in a subsequent encapsulation of the OPV component.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for coating a flexible substrate are provided. The flexible substrate is guided over a process roller. The flexible substrate has a first protective film, which is removed from the flexible substrate before the flexible substrate reaches a coating zone of a coating device located opposite the process roller. The first protective film is removed from the flexible substrate after the flexible substrate has formed a mechanical contact with the surface of the process roller. A second protective film is applied to the coated side of the flexible substrate after the flexible substrate has left the coating zone of the coating device and before the mechanical contact between the process roller and the flexible substrate is ended.

Abstract: A method of preparing a multi-layer assembly, or of protecting a surface of a multi-layer substrate from damage and/or contamination and/or debris, said method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a composite film comprising a polymeric base layer having a first and second surface and disposed on the first surface thereof a polymeric protective layer having a first surface and a second surface such that the first surface of the said base layer is in contact with the first surface of the polymeric protective layer, wherein said polymeric protective layer comprises an ethylene-based copolymer, and preferably wherein the polymeric base layer comprises a polyester derived from one or more diol(s) and one or more dicarboxylic acid(s); (ii) removing said polymeric protective layer from the first surface of said base layer; (iii) disposing on the exposed first surface of said base layer one or more functional layers to provide a multi-layer substrate, wherein the, or at least the uppermost, functional layer compri

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for coating a flexible substrate are provided. The flexible substrate is guided over a process roller. The flexible substrate has a first protective film, which is removed from the flexible substrate before the flexible substrate reaches a coating zone of a coating device located opposite the process roller. The first protective film is removed from the flexible substrate after the flexible substrate has formed a mechanical contact with the surface of the process roller. A second protective film is applied to the coated side of the flexible substrate after the flexible substrate has left the coating zone of the coating device and before the mechanical contact between the process roller and the flexible substrate is ended.