Fraunhofer ISE: Coloured films enable patterns on PV modules

2026-05-11 14:59:31

The research team of Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) has developed a colored film with transparent slotted design, which can create highly simulated customized appearance designs on the surface of photovoltaic modules, such as replicating the style of roof tiles.

This type of film pattern relies on the self-developed * * MorphoColor by the research institute ®**  Through technological implementation, this innovative process can present rich color effects with almost no loss of photovoltaic module power generation efficiency. During the Smarter E/Intersolar 2026 European Smart Energy and Solar Exhibition, visitors can visit booth A1.440 at the ISE Research Institute to closely observe photovoltaic products equipped with ShadCut technology.

Marko Ernst, the head of ShadCut technology research and development and ISE researcher, stated that by precise structural processing and cutting of colored films, color effects and complex patterns can be directly integrated into solar panels and building facade components. Not only that, but multiple layers of slotted films can also be stacked to create a three-dimensional texture or rich and diverse color combinations.

This technology has strong universality and is suitable for various conventional photovoltaic modules and photothermal modules; With the support of laser equipment and computer numerical control technology, it is possible to achieve the use of MorphoColor ®  Cut various customized patterns on the coated film.

Dr. Martin Heinrich, the head of ISE's photovoltaic packaging and integration department, added that this technology is highly suitable for scenarios such as building exterior photovoltaic, roof photovoltaic, and guardrail photovoltaic, especially for ancient building renovation projects. Photovoltaic modules equipped with ShadCut

It can simulate the texture of bricks and tiles, and the colors naturally match the overall style of the building. At the same time, it also supports personalized customization, such as printing brand logos, text, and characteristic patterns.

MorphoColor ®  The design inspiration for color technology comes from the Big Blue Sparkling Butterfly. The unique three-dimensional photon structure of butterfly wings, relying on the principle of low loss optical interference, presents stable colors with high saturation and unaffected by viewing angle. Based on this biomimetic principle, the ISE research team utilized vacuum coating technology to replicate the same microstructure on the inside of the photovoltaic module cover glass.

With the help of different microstructure designs, cover glass can achieve multi-color customization. At present, researchers have successfully extended this color technology to thin film materials, which can be used as flexible packaging films for photovoltaic modules and as backplate materials. Tested and verified by professional institutions, using MorphoColor ®  Color coated photovoltaic modules can achieve 95% of the power generation performance of ordinary uncoated modules, balancing aesthetics and power generation efficiency.