10-10/11 :: October/November 2010
nanotimes EU-Projects
of external factors to changes in solubility of the polymer supported catalysts. New types of films and membranes based on the polymer-nanoparticle link were also studied by the HICAT consortium. Dif- ferent grades of porosity can be achieved by varying the size of the nanoparticles and the polymers, which can help improve catalysis and therefore the operati- on of the reactor.
The HICAT project has developed 40 different POSS entities, as well as synthesising microgels with various surface functional groups and temperature respon- sive cores. The nanoparticles can be easily dispersed in organic solvents and remain stable for several months without any visible signs of deterioration. Project partners have also begun investigating tech- niques for creating layers of nanoparticles and homo- genous nanoparticle size distribution and their effect on permeability. A new spin-coating technique has been highlighted as an effective and relatively simple method for the consecutive coating of nanoparticles, thereby creating a multilayer structure.
Project partners have also studied the production of flat-sheet membranes integrated into spiral-wound modules for applications at the industrial scale. Following a range of performance tests a suitable membrane was identified for commercial applica- tions. The HICAT initiative will also establish an inno- vative catalyst technology apply metal-organic cata- lysts to many industrial fields including production of speciality chemicals, nutrition, pharmaceuticals and polymers. The polymers can be used for coatings, electronics polymers, new active pharmaceutical ingredients and health promoting functional foods.
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Contact: Juergen (Dr.) Zwalinna, EVONIK DEGUSSA GmbH, DG-IPM-IA, Head of Innovation Agency, Hanau, Germany, Phone: +49 2365 49 86652
http://www.evonik.de
Cheaper and More Efficient Solar Cells
One of the most promising avenues of research is silicon heterojunction cells, which depends on a low temperature growth of ultra-thin silicon layers on both sides of a crystalline silicon wafer substrate. The role of the EU-funded HETSI project is to design, develop and test more efficient heterojunction solar cells that are compatible with high-throughput mass production. The cell design is based on an emitter and back surface field produced by a low tempera- ture growth of ultra-thin layers of silicon.
Modelling new concepts is crucial to effective de- sign and development. Simulation results obtained with two different softwares have shown excellent correlation. The software has now been upgraded to take into account additional factors. Project partners have also developed wet-chemical processes and dry cleaning processes that have resulted in higher cell efficiencies.
Different deposition methods for doped metal oxides used in photovoltaics, called transparent conductive oxides (TCO) and include indium tin oxide (ITO), have been compared.
Contact: Yves (Mr) Hussenot, Commissariat Energie Atomique
CEA, +33-438783226 DRT/LITEN, France, Phone:
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