Corning, a provider of specialty glass and ceramics, has won a first commercial order for supply of photovoltaic (PV) glass substrates.
Three years of research, development and interaction with the customer has led to the development of these innovative glass substrates that allow design of light-weight thin-film PV modules and higher energy conversion efficiency solutions. Hence, Corning is excited about the current commercial use of its innovative PV solution.
Trials on Corning’s PV glass technology, conducted by laboratories and customers, have revealed considerable increase in efficiency. The current order represents that PV module manufacturers require engineered glass substrates to achieve higher conversion efficiency. The innovative glass substrates have the capability to enhance thin-film PV module efficiency in the range of 20 to 30 percent.
Key features of the PV glass are high-temperature tolerance and high transmission. As Corning’s innovative material has high transmission property, it enables more light to penetrate the semiconductor layer. Also, the high temperature tolerance feature of the glass allows application of uniform semiconductor films in order to enhance overall conversion efficiency. The PV glass developed by Corning is 50 % stronger than the conventional glass that is used in thin-film modules.
The company manufactures the material at its plant in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. In addition, it also produces EAGLE XG glass and Corning Gorilla Glass for display applications.
Source: http://www.corning.com/