Glitter-sized solar photovoltaics produce competitive results

Power Supply Industry News Knowledge is Power ™

Home

Summary	Glitter-sized solar photovoltaics produce competitive results
Category	Alternative Energy
Green and Alternative Energy	" ... ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Sandia National Laboratories scientists have developed tiny glitter-sized photovoltaic cells that could revolutionize the way solar energy is collected and used. The tiny cells could turn a person into a walking solar battery charger if they were fastened to flexible substrates molded around unusual shapes, such as clothing. The solar particles, fabricated of crystalline silicon, hold the potential for a variety of new applications. They are expected eventually to be less expensive and have greater efficiencies than current photovoltaic collectors that are pieced together with 6-inch- square solar wafers. The cells are fabricated using microelectronic and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) techniques common to today's electronic foundries. Sandia lead investigator Greg Nielson said the research team has identified more than 20 benefits of scale for its microphotovoltaic cells. These include new applications, improved performance, potential for reduced costs and higher efficiencies. "Eventually units could be mass-produced and wrapped around unusual shapes for building-integrated solar, tents and maybe even clothing," he said. This would make it possible for hunters, hikers or military personnel in the field to recharge batteries for phones, cameras and other electronic devices as they walk or rest. ... "
Webpage	More info
Author	SMPS Editor
Date	1/11/2010

2700 currently registered users receiving weekly email news. 7000 registered since 2002.
Copyright © SMPS Power Supplies™. All rights reserved.