Enhancing the efficiency of solar cells and solar panels with bio-based material from algae stage 2

Important results from the project

The project goal was to achieve a higher efficiency of solar panels through an optimized process for coating the surface with biobased material from algae. The project succeeded in developing a method for dispersion of the material and a reliable method to coat solar panels. The coating increased the efficiency of solar panels in tests conducted by an external institute. The project also resulted in an increased understanding of the materials optical properties. This knowledge will be used to find diatom species that can contribute to a larger increase of the efficiency of solar panels.

Expected long term effects

The project has shown that the efficiency of solar panels can be increased with a coating of biobased material from algae. Simulations of the anti-reflective properties show great results that has led to a patent application. Wavelength shifting properties have also been verified. These results have led to cooperation with potential customers. The increased knowledge of the optical properties of the material has led to a new grant funded project with the goal to identify other diatom species that can contribute to a larger increase of the efficiency of solar panels.

Approach and implementation

The project consortium consisted of Swedish Algae Factory (SAFAB), Chalmer, Chalmers industriteknik and Midsummer. Tests have been done with the help of IFE, RISE and Lundahl solar consulting. Simulations were done by Maxanon AB. The project started off with the development of a dispersion method and a method for applying the material as a coating. To help in this step a test and a characterization method was developed. In parallel, simulations on anti-reflection were done. The project then focused on verification on solar panels and on transmission tests on glass and frontsheets.