May 3 2010
Researchers of the Center for Nanotechnology and Molecular Materials of Wake Forest University have found that pokeberries can be instrumental in harnessing solar energy.
The researchers utilized the red dye obtained from pokeberries for coating their inexpensive, efficient fiber-based solar cells. By acting as an absorber, the dye helps the fibers of the cell harness more sunlight for converting into power.
The European Patent Office had granted a patent to Wake Forest University for fiber-based solar or photovoltaic cells. The license for developing manufacturing processes for the novel solar cell has been received by FiberCell Inc.
In comparison with flat-cell technology, fiber cells can generate twice as much power. This can be attributed to the presence of millions of small, plastic ‘cans’ that harness light. To manufacture the cells, plastic fibers are pressed onto plastic sheets. The absorber is then spayed on the surface. The cells are flexible and lightweight as they are plastic in nature.
Once the cells are manufactured, the dye can be sprayed on the cells and made ready for installation. The director of Center for Nanotechnology and Molecular Materials David Carroll estimates that the cost of setting up a manufacturing plant would be around $5 million.
The Center for Nanotechnology and Molecular Materials utilizes revolutionary science for addressing some of the important needs of the society from green technologies to health care.
Source: http://www.wfu.edu/