MICROLINK DEVICES INC — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: ABSTRACT: MicroLink proposes a device that combines ultra-thin, high-efficiency, GaAs-bas
MICROLINK DEVICES INC — STTR Phase I award from Department of Defense.
- Amount
- $100,000
- Agency
- Department of Defense · Air Force
- Program / Phase
- STTR · Phase I
- Solicitation
- 2010.B
- NAICS
- —
- Place of performance
- IL
- Period
- 2011-04-19
Description
ABSTRACT: MicroLink proposes a device that combines ultra-thin, high-efficiency, GaAs-based multijunction solar cells, made using our proprietary epitaxial lift-off (ELO) process, with a novel packaging approach that will result in high-efficiency, flexible photovoltaic blankets. MicroLink has developed a process that produces ultra-thin, flexible solar cells. In this project, these flexible solar cells will be incorporated into a flexible, polymeric solar sheet. The net result will be a sheet that has a high net solar conversion efficiency and that can be rolled or folded. BENEFIT: The ability to integrate highly flexible solar cells would provide a clear pathway towards the realization of a high efficiency solar blanket. Key areas of development to be accomplished in Phase I include interconnects, welding, and thin film packaging. The development efforts would lead to lightweight solar-powered battery charging units with widespread commercial potential in applications such as powering consumer electronics, sports, and camping.