Published on 09/22/2006
Most solar cells are made from crystalline silicon, stuff which is used to make computer semiconductors. Since computer parts are much more valuable than solar cells, one can expect a shortage of silicon to make solar cells. Thankfully, PowerFilm has managed to manufacture solar cells with minimal silicon, using 2 micrometer thick non-crystalline silicon wafers. This new development enables the super thin solar cell to be mounted on flexible plastic and other materials. Unfortunately, the power yield is roughly half of what crystalline silicon can produce and its performance drops by up to 20% over time. Should this technology be developed further, we might see the end of bulky adapters one day.