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Novel Interconnection Process for Lightweight Flexible Photovoltaic Modules--Midwest Optoelectronics, LLC, 2600 Dorr Street, Toledo, OH 43607; 419‑724‑3710; www.mwoe.com

Dr. Aarohi S. Vijh, Principal Investigator, vijh@mwoe.com

Dr. Liwei Xu, Business Official, xu@mwoe.com

DOE Grant No. DE‑FG02‑06ER84555

Amount: $746,325

In traditional monolithic interconnection processes for the manufacture of solar cells, one or more of the interconnection steps is performed before the deposition of the thin-film semiconductor material. In this project, the manufacturing process will be improved by performing all series interconnection steps after the thin film solar cell is fabricated. The process uses ink-jet and laser processing for the interconnection, and when fully developed, will be substantially automated. Phase I involved the further development of a patent-pending concept for the series interconnection of thin film solar cells that have been pre-fabricated on plastic or other insulating substrates. In Phase II, the process will be designed for compatibility with low-cost, continuous, roll-to-roll photovoltaic manufacturing processes.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new process would allow solar cell interconnections at a single station near the end of the production line. The technology also would allow manufacturers to ship solar cells to a different location for interconnection and module assembly, if required.