Applied Surface Technologies LLC in Waterloo, Wis., is now distributing in North America the patent-pending Vindico PV+ from Vindico Surface Technologies B.V. The two-stage process combines an anti-reflective coating with a durable, hydrophilic, dirt repelling coating for use with photovoltaic (PV) glass used in the production of solar energy. The technology has been verified by independent testing to increase watt-peak of PV modules by up to 5 percent or more.

The efficiency of solar energy is dependent upon the amount of sunlight that reaches the PV cells. Contamination and reflection from the glass are negative factors that reduce energy production. By combining an anti-reflective coating with hydrophilic technology, energy production can be maximized.

The two technologies used in producing PV+ are combustion chemical vapor deposition (CCVD) and a sol-gel coating. The CCVD process works by depositing silicon dioxide (SiO2) onto glass, creating an anti-reflective coating. This technology offers economic benefits over other processes for creating anti-reflective glass, since the capital equipment is less expensive. Additionally, unlike many anti-reflective technologies, the CCVD process can be used on all types of glass: float, low iron, patterned and even curved glass. 

Application of Vindico HP, a sol-gel coating over the CCVD technology process, provides a hydrophilic, dirt repelling coating and further enhances light transmission. Sol-gels combine multiple chemical traits into a single coating for increased adhesion, durability and wear resistance (Vindico HP has passed 50,000 abrasion tests with no effect).

In addition to using Vindico HP in combination with the CCVD process, Vindico HP can be used as a contamination-reducing hydrophilic coating on all types of PV glass and solar mirrors. By itself, Vindico HP can increase light transmission and reduce contamination by 50 percent.

This sol-gel product can endure temperatures up to 750°C and is alkali- and acid-resistant. The hydrophilic properties enhance the durable dirt repelling properties. Water-based cleaning products are much more effective and rainwater contributes to the cleaning process.

The inline automated production process of Vindico PV+ includes application of the CCVD using specialty burners and sprayers for application of the sol-gel coating. Once treated, the glass can be immediately handled and processed.

Independent testing by TNO, an internationally respected testing laboratory with more than 25 locations in Europe, resulted in watt-peak increases averaging 4.87 percent or greater.

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