Solar Solutions

Silicon-based Encapsulant, New Processing Platform Improves Performance and Durability to Lower Cost per Kwh of Solar Power

Midland, Mich. (U.S.A.) - Dow Corning Corp. has announced the commercial availability of a breakthrough solar cell encapsulation technology that improves performance and effectively lowers the cost per kilowatt-hour of solar power.

"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.

About Dow Corning

Dow Corning provides performance-enhancing solutions to serve the diverse needs of more than 25,000 customers worldwide. A global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, Dow Corning offers more than 7,000 products and services via the company's Dow Corning® and XIAMETER® brands. Dow Corning is a joint venture equally owned by The Dow Chemical Company and Corning, Incorporated. More than half of Dow Corning's annual sales are outside the United States.