By AZoM Materials
Thursday, September 10, 2009
'This solution will help make solar power a viable and
sustainable energy option globally by improving module durability
and efficiency, as well as reducing capital and manufacturing costs
and significantly increasing the production rate of solar panels,"
said Gaetan Borgers, global industry director, Dow Corning Solar
Business.
Dow Corning® PV-6100 Encapsulant Series relies on the UV
stability of the silicone molecule to deliver improved durability
and increased efficiency for crystalline modules compared to
incumbent organics. PV-6100 Encapsulant Series provide an
ultra-transparent layer of protection for the solar cell in a panel
and can replace incumbent technologies. The silicon-based material
provides higher efficiency, longer module life, and optimum UV
resistance.
The new processing platform can achieve higher production rates
for crystalline and amorphous silicon thin film modules, reducing
the cost per kilowatt-hour of solar power.
The process increases manufacturing efficiency and reduces total
cost of ownership through lower processing temperatures, faster
throughput, as well as lower capital and less factory space needed
for the equipment.
Solar cell modules assembled with Dow Corning® PV-6100
Encapsulant Series pass UL Class 'C" flame testing and rigorous
engineering evaluations in accordance with the International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. The encapsulants were
also tested by select solar panel manufacturers with panels made at
the Dow Corning Solar Solutions Application Center in Freeland,
Michigan.
'All of our efforts are focused on uncovering and creating new
opportunities to deliver improved cost efficiency, durability and
performance to help the solar industry move towards being
economically competitive with conventional energy sources, and
become a sustainable energy option globally. And we’re
getting closer and closer to that reality every day," said Eric
Peeters, vice president, Dow Corning Solar Business.
Dow Corning Solar Solutions provides materials and services for
the entire photovoltaic supply chain, from silicon feedstock for
ingots and wafers production to solar module assembly materials. It
is leveraging its unique position and global leadership in the
silicon value chain to deliver solutions that will make a
difference in the photovoltaic industry and help photovoltaic
producers fulfill the mid- and long-term promises of solar
energy.
SOURCE