Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of making a photovoltaic device having a protective layer affixed to a top surface thereof. The protective layer is comprised of a polymeric material having a fluorinated first surface and a second, opposed, surface which is non-fluorinated or less fluorinated. The protective layer is affixed to the photovoltaic device so that the first surface is farthest therefrom. In some instances, the fluoridation may extend to edge portions of the protective layer as well as to any intermediate layers. Further disclosed are devices which incorporate the fluorinated protective layers.

Abstract: A photovoltaic device is adhesively mounted to a support structure such as a roofing member or building panel by the use of a body of foamed adhesive. The foamed adhesive is resilient and accommodates differences in the thermal expansion and contraction of materials comprising the photovoltaic device and the structure upon which it is mounted and thereby prevents delamination and other stress-related damage to the photovoltaic installation. The adhesive may comprise a contact adhesive, a hot melt adhesive, or a curable adhesive. Further disclosed are methods for affixing photovoltaic systems to building structures and the like through the use of foamed adhesives.

Abstract: A mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device to a surface is provided in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The mounting system includes one or more mounting members for securing an inactive area of the photovoltaic device to the surface. The mounting members are configured so the inactive area is non-destructively detachable from the surface and the photovoltaic device is not made incapable of operation due the detachment process. In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting system includes a unique configuration of mounting members for securing the photovoltaic device against the surface during a predetermined load condition imposed upon the photovoltaic device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of making a photovoltaic device having a protective layer affixed to a top surface thereof. The protective layer is comprised of a polymeric material having a fluorinated first surface and a second, opposed, surface which is non-fluorinated or less fluorinated. The protective layer is affixed to the photovoltaic device so that the first surface is farthest therefrom. In some instances, the fluorination may extend to edge portions of the protective layer as well as to any intermediate layers. Further disclosed are devices which incorporate the fluorinated protective layers.

Abstract: A method for storing photosensitive donor media comprising the step of: placing said donor media in an air and humidity occlusive vessel; establishing an internal atmosphere in said vessel, said internal atmosphere containing about 1 to 5% oxygen and about 40 to 60% humidity; and sealing said donor media in said vessel.