Aug 19 2010
Dow Corning Corp., a global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, has expanded its portfolio of products and solutions used throughout the photovoltaic value chain with the introduction of two products, Dow Corning® PV-8080 Neutral Sealant and Dow Corning® PV-7321 Potting Agent.
The products will be featured at the 25th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference in Valencia, Spain, September 6-10.
Dow Corning® PV-8080 Neutral Sealant provides excellent fit and long-term bonding and protection against moisture, mechanical and thermal shock, and vibration in framing applications. The silicon-based sealant has excellent adhesion to aluminum, glass, various laminates and offers many benefits over typical PV tape. PV-8080 Neutral Sealant’s elasticity allows expansion and contraction during exposure to tough environments, and fast tack-free time allows ease of processing.
Dow Corning® PV-7321 Potting Agent provides protection against corrosion and moisture, increasing reliability and protection of junction box components. PV-7321 can be dispensed manually or by using one of the available types of meter mix equipment for automated dispensing.
“As the photovoltaic industry expands, it is critical to select suitable material and process solutions to meet the numerous requirements, including durability, efficiency, cost, throughput and global availability,” said Gaetan Borgers, global industry director, Dow Corning Solar. “Dow Corning continues to leverage its unique position and global leadership in the silicon value chain to deliver solutions that will make a difference in the photovoltaic industry and help photovoltaic producers fulfill the mid- and long-term promises of solar energy.”
One of the only companies in the world able to provide silicon-based solutions throughout the entire photovoltaic value chain, Dow Corning is investing to expand its portfolio of total solution packages for solar cell manufacturing, module assembly and installation. Solution packages are built on high-performance silicone products such as encapsulants, adhesives, coatings, potting agents and sealants, as well as next-generation solar grade silicon.
Over the past five years, Dow Corning and its joint ventures at the Hemlock Semiconductor Group have announced investments of more than $5 billion to research, develop and expand production of materials critical to the solar industry.