Solar cell research seals Anglo-German power partnership

Sheffield Hallam University is pursuing new research work with German company for solar cell development

Research scientists from Sheffield Hallam University have strengthened their relationship with one of the world's most respected research organisations in a new collaborative project looking at new ways of improving the efficiency of solar cells.

The Joint HIPIMS Technology Centre, launched by Sheffield Hallam and German firm Fraunhofer IST last July, is researching how to reduce the manufacturing costs of solar cells by reducing consumption of expensive raw metals and energy by depositing photovoltaic layers at lower temperatures.

Dr Volker Sittinger, from Fraunhofer IST in Braunschweig, Germany, spent a week working in the city to investigate how the unique Sheffield Hallam technology can help optimise the coating structure for solar cells.

Professor Arutiun Ehiasarian, founder of HIPIMS Technology Centre, said: "The HIPIMS technology can produce an absorber layer which is better at converting light into electrical charges and result in solar cells with much higher efficiency.

"This system is unique and the beginning of a new technology which will produce higher efficiency solar cells using fewer raw materials, less energy and at a lower cost.

"It has been great to welcome Volker to Sheffield Hallam to strengthen the relationship we have developed over the past year.

Professor Mike Smith, Pro Vice Chancellor for research and development at Sheffield Hallam, said: "Our HIPIMS centre is spearheading Sheffield Hallam's reputation for collaborative international research.

"Volker's visit is an important milestone on our journey to develop innovative new methods of improving the efficiency of renewable energy sources and contribute to the battle against global warming."

For press information contact: Laurie Harvey on 0114 225 2621 or email pressoffice@shu.ac.uk

Quelle: http://www.shu.ac.uk/news vom 17. Mai 2011