Heliatek, IAPP Achieve Production-Relevant Efficiency Record for OPV Cells

While carrying out development work in cooperation with the Institute of Applied Photophysics (IAPP) at Dresden University, Heliatek GmbH of Dresden has again set an efficiency record for organic photovoltaic cells (OPVCs): with an efficiency of 8.3% on an active surface area of 1.1 cm2, measured by Heliatek and independently confirmed by the Fraunhofer ISE CalLab (Freiburg), this sets a new world record for organic photovoltaic cells (OPVCs).

The figure is not just scientifically pertinent, but also of great practical relevance, as the measurements of the record-breaking cell are those of a PV module currently in the pipeline. This means the record-breaker has all the properties and characteristics of a future product, as the individual cell strips can be connected to one another in series, similarly to other thin-film technologies. Furthermore, all the materials used can be produced economically and processed efficiently as a photoactive layer in the Heliatek vacuum production unit.

Heliatek’s technology is based on the thermal deposition of organic molecules in vacuum. Production processes carried out in vacuum are known from the semi-conductor industry to be very stable and cost-effective.

“With this new record-breaking efficiency for organic photovoltaic cells using small molecules we have succeeded to surpass, in the laboratory, the efficiency rates amorphous silicon PV cells typically achieve in current production units. At the same time we could prove the processibility of the novel light-absorbing molecules developed by Heliatek. We are convinced that in taking this step we have set another milestone in the global development of cost-effective, efficient solar modules,” explained Heliatek CTO Dr. Martin Pfeiffer.

“We are currently preparing to set up our first OPV production line in Dresden, in other words getting ready for commercial use on the basis of Heliatek’s patented p-i-n tandem organic photovoltaics technology,” Thomas Körner, vice president of sales, marketing and business development at Heliatek, commented. “The efficiency record we have set is an excellent starting point for various areas of application, such as mobile electronic systems or roofing membrane systems for flat, lightweight roofs. This forms a basis for Heliatek’s future success as a provider of innovative, light, long-lasting PV modules on flexible substrates. The first products should be coming onto the market at the start of 2012.”

The record-breaking cell comes from a cooperative venture by Heliatek GmbH and the IAPP’s BMBF-sponsored InnoProfile group “Organic p-i-n Components”, plus funding from the BMBF (Projects 13N9716 and 13N9869), the European Union and the Free State of Saxony (SAB project 12716/2112).