Konarka technologies has developed photovoltaic cells that are
no longer restricted to being placed on glass but can instead be printed onto
lightweight plastic. In addition the companies' line of cells doesn't rely on
light from the sun alone but also can utilize indoor lighting. The cells are
printed onto different materials with a system similar to newspaper printing
called roll to roll printing. This system allows for the cells to be printed in
different colors and patterns. Also, the cells can have different levels of transparency
allowing it to be applied to a wide range of materials.
One example of this versatility is the U.S. militaries'
request to have their buildings be made with the cells incorporated into the
material. The cells can also be incorporated into tents, awnings, roofs,
windows and window coverings. In addition the cells can be printed onto plastic
material which can put out power for cell phones, laptops, and other electronic
devices.
The printing process also doesn't require a new factory to
be built because it can use existing coating and printing machines and
technologies. Furthermore, the process to make the cells can be done nearly
everywhere even in places with infrastructure that may be considered insufficient.
For more information on this technology please visit Konarka's
website.
