Ferro Electronic Materials has been awarded US$1 million by the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) to develop advanced durability sealing systems for solar cells. The project will involve collaboration with Edison Welding Institute, StrateNexus Technologies, and The Ohio State University in developing, testing and commercializing this new technology.
If successful, the new sealing materials will enable Ferro to solve the problem of cells losing hermeticity over time.
“One of Ferro Corporation’s core technical competencies is the design and manufacture of custom glasses,” said Steven Florio, chief technology officer for Ferro’s Electronic, Color and Glass Materials division. “We believe this strength in glass technology will enable Ferro to rapidly drive the development of the frits required for this critical new application.”
Funding for the project is provided through the Ohio Third Frontier Photovoltaic Program. These awards are contingent upon State Controlling Board approval.
“This funding catalyzes the transformation of cutting edge research – much of it pioneered in the laboratories of the University System of Ohio – into successful Ohio businesses and 21st century Ohio jobs,” said Eric Fingerhut, chancellor of the Ohio board of Regents and Chair of the Ohio Third Frontier Commission. “As the nation looks to renewable energies, Ohio’s position as a leader in photovoltaic production builds a foundation for the state’s economic future.”
