NICHIBAN, in collaboration with the Shimane Industry Technology Center in Japan, has developed a groundbreaking packaging material called Nichiban UM, designed to significantly extend the lifespan of dye-sensitized solar cells. Mikuni, an expert in adhesive research, played a key role in creating the prototype and conducted extensive studies on the performance of these solar cells at the Shimane Prefecture Industrial Technology Center, helping enhance their overall efficiency and durability.
This new encapsulant is based on a UV-curable acrylic resin that hardens quickly when exposed to ultraviolet or visible light in the 200–420 nm range, typically within just a few seconds. Compared to traditional thermosetting materials, this innovation reduces heat-related damage to the sensitive pigments inside the cells, while also boosting production speed and cost-effectiveness.
The UV-curable acrylic resin also boasts excellent moisture resistance and high chemical stability, making it highly resistant to degradation from electrolytes. After undergoing a rigorous 1,000-hour high-temperature test, the material maintained over 95% of its original performance, demonstrating remarkable reliability. Additionally, because it's a liquid formulation, it can be easily applied using screen printing or dispensing techniques, offering flexibility for different shapes and sizes of solar cell modules. This makes it ideal for a wide range of industrial applications and custom designs.
With its combination of durability, efficiency, and adaptability, Nichiban UM represents a major step forward in the development of more reliable and long-lasting solar technology. The collaboration between NICHIBAN and the Shimane Industry Technology Center highlights the importance of cross-industry partnerships in advancing renewable energy solutions. As the demand for sustainable power sources continues to grow, innovations like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of clean energy.
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