ISFH Makes a Key Contribution to a New Record of PERC Efficiency of 21.2%
DEK Solar and the Hamelin Institute of Solar Energy (ISFH) joined forces to push the boundaries of crystalline silicon solar cell performance by introducing a screen-printed metal contact electrode on the backside of the cell, along with a two-step screen and steel stencil printing process on the front. This innovative approach led to a record-breaking efficiency of 21.2% for PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology, marking a significant milestone in the industry. Typically, screen-printed solar cells achieve efficiencies between 17.5% and 19.5%. However, DEK Solar’s recent advancements—leveraging metallization techniques through both screen and stencil printing—have set a new benchmark for PERC cell efficiency. This achievement not only highlights the potential of these methods but also proves their viability for large-scale industrial production. Key technologies from DEK Solar, such as the high-precision Eclipse metallization platform, ultra-fine grid wire mesh, and precision wire mesh, played a crucial role in achieving this 21.2% efficiency. The cell uses Heraeus-optimized front-side silver paste, combined with DEK Solar’s two-step printing process. First, the main grid was printed using DEK Solar’s five-line precision mesh design, followed by the fine grid lines, which were printed at a width of 46 micrometers using the ultra-fine grid line stencil. DEK Solar’s ultra-fine grid stencils ensure exceptional print uniformity and aspect ratio, delivering smooth and consistent fine lines even at widths as narrow as 40 micrometers. Precise control over the relative heights of the main and fine grids helps reduce shading losses, lower silver paste consumption, and enable the use of non-contact main grid pastes, which enhances open-circuit voltage (Voc) and overall cell efficiency. The back contacts were applied using DuPont’s back-side aluminum paste. “This achievement is more than just a technical success—it represents a major leap forward for the solar industry,†said Tom Falcon, Chief Engineer at DEK Solar. “The collaboration between ISFH and DEK Solar has provided a practical solution that meets the growing demand for cost-effective, high-efficiency PERC cells. This breakthrough is a game-changer for global solar manufacturing.†Dr. Thorsten Dullweber, head of the ISFH research group on solar cell production processes, emphasized the significance of this efficiency gain: “Raising efficiency so dramatically is no small feat, especially when it’s achieved using silk-screen and stencil printing with under 80 mg of silver paste per wafer. DEK Solar has been—and will continue to be—an essential partner, offering not only cutting-edge equipment and materials, but also deep process expertise that drives innovation forward.†Euro Facade Frame System,European Style Facade Frame System Chuzhou Jincheng Metalwork Co.,Ltd , https://www.jinchengscaffold.com