The world's largest screen-printed dye solar cell module has been made by a team from Fraunhofer ISE.

Marking an important step in the technology from the laboratory to industry, the firm has produced the first dye solar cell module on a continuous substrate material with dimensions of 60 x 100cm.

A relatively young photovoltaic technology, dye solar cell modules use ruthenium, a platinum group metal, to absorb light in a way similar to photosynthesis.

Dye solar cells are based on a nanocrystalline carrier layer made of titanium dioxide whose surface is chemically bonded with dye molecules. A small amount of gel electrolyte is used for the transport of the carriers.

Dr Andreas Hinsch said the development of the large solar cell avoids a complex external connection of the submodules.

"With this prototype, we have achieved a decisive step towards cost-effective up-scaling and paved the way for the transfer to the industrial level," he explained.

Fraunhofer ISE said it is now considering plans for a spin-off company to develop the first demonstration models of the new cells.

Source:


Façade Integration in Sight - Fraunhofer ISE Presents Worldwide Largest Screen-Printed Dye Solar Cell Module (10/03/11)

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