Sixtron SunBox provides a path to improved cell efficiencies without major disruption of manufacturing processes

(07/07/2009)

The Sixtron SunBox is an on-site gas generation system that uses a solid polymer source material to safely and effectively deposit anti-reflective and passivation layers on crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cells. The SunBox system is plug & play compatible with industry standard plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) equipment on both new and existing manufacturing lines.

Prior to the introduction of the SunBox, anti-reflective coatings and passivation layers have primarily been deposited using silane. This pyrophoric gas, which requires costly safety and handling procedures, multiplies manufacturers’ financial and operational risks.

At Intersolar 2009 in Munich, Germany, the Sixtron SunBox, an efficient silane-free system for applying anti-reflective coatings, was awarded the Cell Award for Best Process Technology in Crystalline Silicon Cell Manufacturing. The Cell Awards are judged by a consortium of the solar industry’s leading companies and research organizations, including Q-Cells, Suntech Power and Fraunhofer ISE, and recognize products with the most potential to lower the cost of solar technology.

“Our panel of judges from across the solar industry knows all too well how difficult it is to expand manufacturing operations when burdened with silane safety infrastructure and procedures,” said David Owen, managing director of Photovoltaics International. “Sixtron’s technology is alleviating this liability, and we believe it will become an important part of solar’s journey toward grid parity.”

“The SunBox delivers process improvement to solar cell manufacturers while at the same time reducing both capital expenses and operating costs,” said Zbigniew Barwicz, CEO of Sixtron. “Our silane-free system provides our customers with a path to improved cell efficiencies without major disruption of manufacturing processes. This award is independent recognition by top cell manufacturers that the SunBox provides exceptional value to the industry.”

The SunBox coating system is sold directly to solar cell and equipment manufacturers by Sixtron, and is currently being evaluated by leading equipment providers for inclusion into existing and future turnkey offerings.

Related categories:  Solar power and photovoltaics