Solar3D files international patent application for 3D solar cells

Feb 26, 2013 - US solar cell technology developer Solar3D Inc (OTC:SLTD) said today it had filed a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) international application for its breakthrough three-dimensional solar cell design and methods of fabrication.

If approved, the patent will cover the company’s technology in all countries that are currently PCT contracting states.

Jim Nelson, Solar3D chief executive, said that with the approach to commercialisation, the company wanted to cover the technology and its potential geographic marketplace.

The company’s technology is based on two innovations in the production of its single wafer silicon solar cell -- the collection of light from a wider angle and high conversion efficiency. The Solar3D cell captures more light in low-light conditions such as morning and evening hours and winter months. Its three-dimensional design allows greater electricity generation efficiency thanks to the bouncing of sunlight inside photovoltaic microstructures.

Solar3D is currently working on the development of an advanced manufacturing prototype and identifying a fabrication partner for the potential mass production and commercialisation of the solar cells.

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