DuPont Introduces New Kapton Films for Flexible and Thin Film Photovoltaic Applications

DuPont has developed two key products for Amorphous Silicon (a-Si) modules and Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) photovoltaic applications; and additional Kapton® technologies are in development to further increase the efficiency and lifetime of photovoltaic modules, reduce overall system costs and help the industry reach grid parity faster.

“With a unique combination of electrical, thermal, chemical and mechanical properties that withstand extreme temperature and other demanding environments, DuPont™ Kapton® polyimide films have set the standard in high performance, reliability and durability,” said Robert G. Schmidt, new business development manager, Photovoltaics - DuPont Circuit & Packaging Materials. “They have made innovative design solutions possible in a range of industries over the last 40 years including aerospace, automotive and industrial applications; and we are continuing to put science to work to increase efficiency and performance for the flexible and thin film photovoltaic industry.”

Considered the material of choice in applications involving temperature extremes and harsh environments, Kapton® polyimide films have set the standard for long-term reliability and high-performance substrate technologies with their superior durability, flexibility and temperature tolerance - making them ideal for use in today’s high growth flexible and thin film photovoltaic markets.

The new products include:

-DuPont™ Kapton® PV9101polymide film for ease of manufacturing and robust mechanical performance;

-DuPont™ Kapton® PV9102 polyimide film for ease of manufacturing and increased productivity; and,

-DuPont™ Kapton® PV9103 polyimide film, which will be available later this year, for maximum productivity.

In thin film a-Si modules and CIGS applications, the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of these substrates at elevated deposition temperatures are critical to producing cells with maximum efficiency and yields. The low coefficient of thermal expansion, high glass transition temperature and low shrinkage of Kapton® polyimide films help minimize stress at the interface with other materials of construction, both during processing and end use in temperature extremes. The thermal stability of Kapton® films also allows processing temperatures in excess of 400 degrees Celsius.

DuPont™ Kapton® PV series polyimide films provide roll-to-roll processing capability, low moisture uptake and high moisture release characteristics, excellent electrical properties and increased voltage endurance, and ceramic-filled versions to increase corona resistance and thermal conductivity.

DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions will be exhibiting at Solar Power International 2010 in Los Angeles, Calif., on Oct. 12-14, 2010, in booth 805.

DuPont™ Kapton® polyimide films are part of a broad and growing portfolio of products represented by DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, which connects science and technology from across the company on a global scale to help support the dramatic growth in the photovoltaic industry. To learn more, please visit http://photovoltaics.dupont.com.

DuPont (www.dupont.com) is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 90 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.