Heraeus and Belectric OPV partner to supply the market with next-generation Organic Photovoltaics
German engineering group Heraeus and BELECTRIC OPV engage in a joint-development effort to supply the market with next-generation organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology.
The ability to produce organic photovoltaic (OPV) products in various shapes and colors has been illustrated by BELECTRIC OPV at the German Pavilion at the International EXPO 2015 in Milan, Italy.
The large OPV surfaces are integrated into tree-like structures creating a big canopy over the pavilion. The effect is an attractive, futuristic architecture that generates electricity. This way OPV can energize almost any surface.
The German Pavilion at EXPO 2015 in Milan. Image Credit: © SCHMIDHUBER / Milla & Partner.
Heraeus and Belectric OPV cooperation
Heraeus, a leading supplier of metallization pastes used in crystalline silicon PV solar cells, plays a key role in BELECTRIC’s innovative technology through the supply of vital components. Clevios™ conductive polymer materials based on PEDOT:PSS provide the hole-transport layer, and low temperature SOL silver pastes serve as the electrode in the devices. Both materials are processed by roll-to-roll coating and printing so providing high throughput at low cost.
The mutually beneficial cooperation between BELECTRIC OPV and Heraeus on new materials and processes to improve the viability of OPV even further demonstrates the positive impact along the supply chain. Using state-of-the-art materials in combination with innovative wet-coating based manufacturing processes, BELECTRIC OPV is able to supply the market with customized, aesthetically pleasing OPV solutions.
Andreas Distler, Head of R&D, BELECTRIC OPV said:
“Open innovation approaches, like the joint-development effort together with Heraeus for example, is part of our R&D strategy. In order to bring OPV technology to its best, it is important that a holistic development approach is applied throughout the whole device architecture and the manufacturing process.”
This also adds to the great potential for scalability of printed OPV manufacturing. Armin Sautter, Manager at Heraeus New Businesses, stated:
“Heraeus has over 45 years’ experience in the development thick film metallization pastes and conductive polymers. Partnerships with new technology leaders, such as BELECTRIC, who provide unlimited shapes, colours and even flexibility, is an entirely new dimension for PV technology. BELECTRIC OPV’s vision for photovoltaics is consistent with ours, using technology and innovation to achieve sustainable green energy.”
Source: Press Release by Belectric. Featured Image Credit: LAPP Group.
