Polymer Processing Solar Panels - A Greener Alternative

Although they are considered far from perfect at present, polymer processing solar panels are considered by many to be the key to greener, more affordable sun-powered energy. These panels are organic in nature and more economically feasible to construct, but they do have some potential problems that need to be pondered before they will provide a viable solution to offset the costs of installing solar systems in homes and businesses.

The desire to offset the use of fossil fuels has turned attention back on solar power. This technology has come a long way in a short time, but more work is needed to make solar available on a wider scale. A Polymer processing solar panel is one option to make this happen.

Polymer panels are designed using the creation of Nobel Prize winners Hideki Shirakawa, Alan Heeger and Alan G. MacDiarmid. Their invention of conductive polymers is believed to be the springboard that will eventually lead to the creation of much more affordable solar cells that involve the use of cheap plastics. These cells would not have to rely on more expensive silicon to function.

Polymer solar panels have been created and are considered quite affordable compared to other options, but they do have some problems. The most notable drawbacks of this technology include:

• Low efficiency - Organic panels, unfortunately, are simply not as energy efficient as their counterparts. They simply cannot generate the same amount of power as silicon at present.
• UV compromise - Polymer panels can degrade when exposed to UV light. This means their anticipated use time is limited.
• Oxidation and moisture problems - Solar panels that are polymer in design also have some issues with oxidation and moisture. This, too, can lead to their breakup and inability to function as desired.

Polymer processing solar panels are hoped to make this type of energy more available to the masses. Although these solar cells are not as efficient as many would like them to be, it is hoped that this technology can be improved over time.