MICRO METROLOGY | ARTICLE
<< Figure 1: Te complex multi-layer structure of the organic solar cell lends itself to detailed surface analysis techniques. >>
Cleaning up Green Energy MARKUS FABICH, PRODUCT AND APPLICATION SPECIALIST FOR MATERIALS SCIENCE MICROSCOPY, OLYMPUS SE & CO. KG, HAMBURG, GERMANY
Moving towards sustainable manufacture of photovoltaics, the latest technology in 3D laser scanning microscopy has enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of Dr M. Schiek’s research into organic semiconductors and transparent electrodes — as Markus Fabich of Olympus Europa explains.
Feeding the global power grid in a sustainable fashion remains one of the greatest challenges faced by the modern world, and solar energy is a popular source of clean, green, renewable energy. However, the manufacturing process of conventional solar cells is far from green.
Take the case of crystalline silicon for example, a main component of conventional solar cells. Firstly, transforming silica ore into its valuable crystallised form requires temperatures of above 2000°C. Not only is this an incredibly energy-hungry process in itself, but obtaining ultra-pure silicon also involves several hazardous chemicals and a potent greenhouse gas. Other main offenders in the modern manufacture of many inorganic thin-film solar cells include components comprising the toxic elements selenium and
cadmium. Indium is also a vital ingredient, forming indium tin oxide (ITO), but reserves of this finite resource are estimated to become unviable by 2017, which poses another set of potential challenges. Take the case of tantalum, for example: vital for the creation of electrical transistors, the limited availability of this contentious material sits at the heart of political conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
With the drive towards sustainable energy production, methods of manufacturing green-energy devices must be equally sustainable – and this is the goal of Dr Manuela Schiek’s research group at the University of Oldenburg. Teir research focuses on alternative materials for solar cell manufacture that are both non-hazardous and readily available.
>> Continued on page 20 18 | commercial micro manufacturing international Vol 7 No.6
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