Cost-effective encapsulation for long-lasting flexible solar technologies
Flexible solar cells based on perovskite and organic materials offer exciting possibilities for the transition towards renewable energy but face critical durability challenges. When exposed to moisture, oxygen, heat, and UV light, these innovative materials rapidly degrade, significantly limiting their operational life span. To ensure that these solar cells can maintain the required level of performance over 20 years, effective encapsulation techniques are needed.
Spatial ALD is the only alternative that provides reliable encapsulation at a competitive price. The applied layers are pinhole-free with optimal barrier properties and provide the flexibility required for widespread commercial implementation. Applications such as building-integrated solar panels, portable power systems, and installations on curved surfaces transition from theoretical concepts to practical, cost-effective solutions.
Improved efficiency at industrial scale
And there are more benefits that the atomic precision of spatial ALD offers to solar cell performance. By depositing thin metal oxide films as Electron Transport Layers (ETLs) and Hole Transport Layers (HTLs), this technology significantly enhances charge transport dynamics and improves extraction efficiency of the solar cells.
The exceptional uniformity achieved through spatial ALD enables the creation of ultra-thin buffer layers between active materials and electrodes. These nanoscale interfaces greatly improve charge extraction while minimising energy barriers that typically limit device performance.
Our superspatial ALD technology allows for faster deposition rates at low temperatures, making it suitable for temperature-sensitive, large-area applications like perovskite solar cells. This combination of precision layer control, interface engineering, and processing conditions creates a breakthrough solution for large-area applications. The technology bridges laboratory efficiencies to industrial-scale production, enabling commercialisation of emerging solar cell technologies previously limited by manufacturing challenges.
How spatial ALD benefits solar PV
Reduced cost
Material and energy efficiency gains result in a significantly lower total cost of ownership for applied barrier layers per m2 compared to conventional encapsulation methods.
Easy in-line integration
Enabling in-line encapsulation via flexible and modular roll-to-roll machine. Our scalable equipment will allow for extremely high throughput and will be compatible with existing production lines. Due to its configuration all process modules are easily accessible, and systems have a relatively small footprint.
Improved efficiency and durability
Achieving encapsulated solar PV with long-term outdoor stability is essential for practical applications. Spatial ALD applied thin films can improve the stability of the materials maintaining the required flexibility and barrier properties over time.
The Perovision Project: Advancing perovskite solar cells to production level
Together with Hyet Solar and TNO, we launched the Perovision Project to pioneer a production line for nickel oxide (NiOx) layers used in perovskite solar cells. Utilising our thin film equipment with spatial ALD technology, we aim to develop an efficient process for these charge transport layers.
Perovskite solar cells with NiOx layers play a pivotal role in the energy transition, delivering improved performance and longevity. Key challenges include scaling production, ensuring long-term stability, and managing costs.
The Perovision Project aspires to solve these issues by employing our superspatial ALD technology for precise NiOx layer deposition at industrial rates, paving the way for the commercialisation of perovskite solar cells.
Spark your imagination
Are you currently producing thin film material and interested in exploring the advantages of nano coating for your product? Discover how our thin film equipment can help you disrupt your sector and download the product sheet.