Laser Scribing Promises More Efficient Solar Cells

cylonlover writes "A new manufacturing method that incorporates laser technology may result in thin film solar panels that are less expensive and more efficient than anything presently on the market. Currently, a stylus is used to mechanically etch microchannels into such panels, which electrically connect the individual solar cells and allow them to form an array. Researchers from Indiana's Purdue University, however, are developing a technique in which an ultrafast pulsing laser is used to do the etching. Not only will it hopefully be quicker and cheaper than mechanical 'scribing,' but it should also produce cleaner, sharper microchannels that offer superior performance."

Comments

Re:Supply and Demand Problem

[mark-t]

Limited availability of silicon?

On this planet?

Not bloody likely.

The limiting factor will be the limited availability of the production facilities, not the raw materials.