Ultrasonic atomization for uniform dispensing and coating of nanoparticles
“The ultrasonic spray
nozzle continuously
generates micronic
droplets that carry
within them identical
concentrations of
nanoparticles. The
nozzle imparts ultra-
sonic vibration into
the liquid suspension,
providing an agglomerate-
free system.”
Figure 2. Ultrasonic droplet diameter sizes.
and accurately coating very thin layer of
nanoparticles on substrates of different
shapes, forms and sizes.
The ultrasonic spray nozzle continu-
ously generates micronic droplets that
carry within them identical concentrations
of nanoparticles. The nozzle imparts ultra-
sonic vibration into the liquid suspension,
providing an agglomerate-free system. By
the time the liquid reaches the target, it
evaporates and gently positions the nano-
particles with a transfer coefficient higher
than 95% and practically no ‘bounce-back’
associated with conventional coating
technologies.
Ultrasonic nozzles for solar cell
manufacturing
Ultrasonic spray systems can be used for
Figure 3. Sono-Tek SonicSyringe (patent pending).
applying soldering flux to the connections
of photovoltaic cells—applying the proper
spray downward. The timing and force of
flux concentration to precisely targeted ar-
the pulses produces a spray pattern that os-
Dr. Riemer is president of Sono-Tek Cor-
eas is a key factor in making reliable solder
cillates back and forth across the substrate.
poration of Milton, NY, a manufacturer
joints for high-volume production lines.
of ultrasonic atomization systems used
Ultrasonic nozzles can provide uniform,
for accurate and uniform spraying of spe-
thin film coverage deposited only on target
Conclusion cialty liquid chemicals by numerous in-
flux areas with minimal or no satellite flux
Ultrasonic atomization technology, such dustries worldwide. Dr. Riemer has over
droplets and no clogging.
as that from Sono-Tek, enables dispensing 25 years of business management and
Ultrasonic systems such as Sono-Tek’s
and coating of an ever-growing array of new scientific leadership experience special-
WideTrack can be highly effective methods
nanomaterials, accurately and uniformly,
izing in R&D, operations management
of applying uniform coatings of liquid
providing massive COGs reduction and
and technology transfer. Dr. Riemer held
dopant solgel solutions, phosphoric acid
excellent ROI.
assignments for seven years with Pfizer
solutions, titanium and zinc oxides, and
as director of global operations develop-
anti-reflection materials to maximize solar
ment and director of R&D process
cell efficiencies. The ultrasonically atom-
development for the Adams Confection-
ized small droplet sizes allow solutions to ery division. Prior to joining Sono-Tek he
diffuse into the cell more effectively than managed for six years JR Consulting, a
other doping methods. With the Wide- management consulting practice.
Track, each spray assembly contains a pair
of air jets that alternately pulse to drive the
www.globalsolartechnology.com Global Solar Technology – November/December 2008 – 23
issue_2.1.indd 23 2/22/09 9:40:03 PM
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