May 5, 2009--DuPont opened a photovoltaic (PV) technical center at its China global R&D Center in Shanghai to support material developments for the fast-growing crystalline silicon PV solar-energy market (see also "A sunny outlook for lasers in solar" and "OPTOmism to emphasize 'green' growth"). DuPont expects to nearly triple its annual PV sales to more than $1 billion in 2012.
The newly established facility contains three labs that focus on processes including cell to module manufacturing, PV metallization, and PV module and reliability testing (see also "Spectroradiometer improves accuracy of photovoltaic measurement"). The new PV technology center provides integrated research, development and technical support for customers in the PV industry in China.
"China is a key market for DuPont and will remain so, in spite of the global recession," said Douglas Muzyka, president -- DuPont Greater China. "The center will allow us to collaborate more closely with our customers in the PV industry, to provide technical support and to develop new materials technologies to meet the market needs. Through this partnership, we will be able to help create solar modules that run more efficiently, last longer and make solar energy a more viable alternative for everyone. This new technology center is a prime example of how DuPont is implementing its global strategies in China."
In 2008 the output of crystalline silicon PV cells and modules in China was about one third of the total volume in the world. In response to the rapid expansion of demand from the China market, the PV technical center, with evaluation facilities resembling its customers' production lines, can conduct more systematic product evaluations, troubleshoot issues more quickly and modify material properties for maximum performance. The center will additionally play a key role as a technical focal point, connecting the China market with other technical networks in the region and with the Experimental Station, DuPont's global R&D headquarters in the U.S.
For more information, go to photovoltaics.dupont.com.
--Posted by Gail Overton, [email protected]; www.laserfocusworld.com.