FASST(tm) Synthesis of CIGS for Flexible Solar Modules

Very lightweight, high efficiency, flexible, and durable photovoltaic (PV) arrays are needed to generate electric power for high-altitude airships. Copper-indium-gallium-diselenide (CIGS) has been identified as the thin-film photovoltaic material that can meet or exceed these stringent requirements, but current processing methods cannot provide the combination of high efficiency, light weight, and flexibility that are needed for airships. HelioVolt has developed a revolutionary process to synthesize CIGS that can overcome the limitations of the conventional processes and excel at both capability and low cost. We call the process FASST(tm), in part because of its speed. Using our advanced CIGS materials model and a new device model, we will determine how this process can be applied to the Airship PV application, and what levels of performance can be expected from the resulting PV arrays. HelioVolt proposes to develop the FASST(tm) CIGS synthesis process on flexible substrates to produce high efficiency, lightweight, CIGS modules. In Phase I, we will demonstrate the feasibility of the FASST(tm) process for Airship applications, using our advanced CIGS model. In Phase 2, we will use this process to fabricate efficient, large-area CIGS solar cells on metal foil or polyimide film.