Sandia has introduced glitter-sized photovoltaic cells that may open the field of microsolar arrays to new applications. The tiny solar particles, fabricated of crystalline silicon, are easy to manufacture with current tooling and the small size of the cells makes them easy to place on curved and flexible surfaces, like clothing.
A number of technical considerations should prove that the microsolar cells are more efficient and less expensive than currently used technology. All of this is good news for an energy-hungry planet in need of green solutions.
Solar Snowflakes
Glitter-Sized Photovoltaic Cells Heat Up Microsolar Potential
Trend Themes
1. Microsolar Arrays - The introduction of glitter-sized photovoltaic cells opens up new opportunities for the development of microsolar arrays.
2. Flexible Photovoltaic Surfaces - The small size of the solar cells allows for easy placement on curved and flexible surfaces, presenting disruptive innovation opportunities for industries seeking to integrate solar power into clothing or other flexible materials.
3. Efficient and Affordable Solar Technology - The technical advantages of the microsolar cells suggest that they may outperform current solar technologies in terms of efficiency and cost, creating disruptive innovation opportunities in the renewable energy industry.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The development of glitter-sized photovoltaic cells could disrupt the renewable energy industry by providing a more efficient and cost-effective solar solution.
2. Fashion and Wearable Technology - The integration of microsolar cells into clothing and other flexible materials presents disruptive innovation opportunities for the fashion and wearable technology industries, allowing for the creation of solar-powered garments and accessories.
3. Electronics Manufacturing - The easy manufacturing process of the glitter-sized photovoltaic cells opens up disruptive innovation opportunities in the electronics manufacturing industry, particularly for the production of compact and flexible solar-powered devices.