BioSolar Files Patent Application For PV Cell Backing
CleanTech Brief
California-based BioSolar, a developer of bio-based materials fromrenewable plant sources, has filed a patent for a new type ofphotovoltaic (PV) cell backing. The company’s BioBacksheet-A is a three-layer laminate filmconsisting of a 100% recyclable aluminum foil center core sandwichedbetween two outer layers of bio-based polymer films. Backsheets are the bottom layers of PV cells, used to protect them from moisture, temperature changes, and the elements.
“BioSolar’s goal is to reduce the costs of solar modules and makesolar energy greener by replacing petroleum-based module componentswith bio-based materials made from renewable plant sources,” said Dr.David Lee, CEO of BioSolar, in a statement. “Patent filing andprotection of our intellectual property is an important milestone as wecontinue our journey toward full-scale commercial production for manyof the company’s new products.”
BioSolar is currently testing a backsheet with a water vaportransmission rate of “essentially zero,” according to the company,which is necessary for thin-film solar module components such ascad-telluride and CIGS. The company says its initial pilot line run ofthis backsheet was a success.
