Flexible Photovoltaics: An Update
Abstract
Flexible photovoltaics convert the sun's light energy into electricity with no noise, no moving parts, no fuel consumption, and no pollutants. The material used in this technology is amorphous silicon. The small units are lightweight, packable, and redeployable. Additional benefits of flexible photovoltaics are solar shading and passive collection. Since JOCOTAS 2009, we have been conducting research into increasing the efficiency of panels, textured substrates, and micro grid integration. The system has been evaluated by the Net Zero Plus JCTD and has been deployed to AFRICOM and Afghanistan. The JCTD showed that the system saves up to 1.52 kW/hr over the baseline tent and generates and stores enough power to sustain a billeting mission overnight. At Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Natick conducted a year-long, limited military user assessment. We received very positive feedback from the users and had requests for additional units. The 24/7 exposure included harsh wind, high temperatures, and extreme dust. One deficiency we discovered from the assessment in Djibouti was minor delamination in the corners. We have current plans to investigate this and resolve it in the upcoming funded effort. Other challenges we face are cost, its efficiency compared to monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon, and the delamination.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 03, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA558371
Entities
People
- Brant Lagoon
Organizations
- United States Army Soldier Systems Center