Technical innovation from Heraeus increases the efficiency of crystalline solar cells

Recently it became possible to significantly increase the efficiency factor of crystalline solar cells by the use of so-called Metal Wrap Through (MWT) cells. The Photovoltaic group of the Thick Film Division of WC Heraeus has specially developed new silver metallization pastes for this innovative type of cell. Scientists from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg have successfully demonstrated that the MWT cells allow for an increase in efficiency of up to 0.5 % (absolute).

The efficiency factor was increased by using newly developed metallization pastes made by Heraeus. The state-of-the art range of pastes, known as SOL 21X, account for a modified, optimal cell design and make it possible to enlarge the total active cell surface by 3 % in comparison to standard cells.

MWT cells can be produced on already existing production lines with few relevant changes being necessary. The new metallization pastes have led to a further important milestone being achieved on the path towards higher levels of power output. Another advantage of the MWT design is the simplified circuitry of the cells within the module now only to be found on the back side. Several leading cell manufacturers have already expressed enthusiastic interest in the newly developed pastes.

Dr. Weiming Zhang, worldwide Manager of Photovoltaic Technology at W. C. Heraeus explains: “Working in closest co-operation with our customers, Heraeus develops tailor-made products and intelligent solutions that create value for the photovoltaic industry. We are extremely proud of the performance of our new SOL 21X range of metallization pastes. At the same time we continue to develop new technology to make our customers more competitive”.

W. C. Heraeus GmbH is part of the precious metals and technology group of Heraeus, processing worldwide the precious metals gold, silver, platinum, and other platinum group metals and special metals to produce industrial products for the automotive, semiconductor, electronics, glass, chemical and petrochemical as well as medical industries. A global network of more than 30 companies includes production facilities for all phases of precious metal production and refining. W. C. Heraeus holds a leading international position in industrial precious metal trading.

Tom Grunwaldt
Marketing & Communication Services
W. C. Heraeus GmbH
Heraeusstrasse 12 - 14
D-63450 Hanau, Germany

Phone: + 49 (0) 6181 / 35 – 5433
Fax + 49 (0) 6181 / 35 – 3131
E-Mail: tom.grunwaldt@heraeus.com

This release was published on openPR.