Review on detection and maintenance of microcrack and hotspot defects in photovoltaic modules

Against the backdrop of global energy transition, photovoltaic (PV) power generation has become increasingly important. As core components, PV modules with microcrack and hotspot defects seriously affect the performance of power generation systems. This paper introduces the formation mechanisms of microcracks and hotspots, as well as the correlation between them. It discusses various detection technologies, analyzes and summarizes their advantages and limitations. The existing methods for hotspot mitigation and microcrack defect elimination are elaborated, while the applications of intelligent operation and maintenance (O&M) systems in these aspects are explored. Overall, this study provides valuable references on microcrack and hotspot defects for researchers and PV power plant operators to obtain better maintenance schemes and maintain PV systems in an optimal manner.