Solar

Never in the history of humanity has energy played as crucial a role in our societies as it does today and never has it been as central to the way we envisage our future. Energy sources are today more diverse and abundant than ever and are at the heart of our economic, ecological and political debates. While trying to manage and potentially reduce our dependence on traditional fossil fuels such as oil, gas and coal, most countries are attempting to find the right balance between economic development, energy efficiency, independence and environmental responsibility.

Photovoltaic panels must be efficient and long lasting, with lifespans of 20 years or more and with the ability to resist extreme weather conditions. To meet these market requirements, solar modules must be assembled with high quality components to ensure proper functioning and protection of vital components. Elkem Silicones provides cost-effective products that ensure electrical integrity (adhesives, electrical insulation, fire resistance) as well as electronic performance (sealing, bonding, and potting of parts).

Electronics are everywhere, it was true before, we now need them in almost every situation of our daily life in transportations, handheld digital devices, displays, smart lighting systems, ECUs or electrical grids. These technologies all use a wide array of components – sensors, actuators, central processing units (CPUs), printed circuit boards (PCB), etc. – that need to be protected against environmental hazards such as dust or moisture, as well as fluids, heat and fire exposure. Silicones are the materials of choice for potting and encapsulating sensitive components, as they are the best front line of defense against outside aggression. 

Silicon's role in aluminum is important for solar cell technology. Silicon alloys enhance conductivity and efficiency. By incorporating silicon, aluminum substrates provide a stable platform for solar cells, ensuring optimal performance. This allows for thinner, lightweight modules, reducing overall costs. Furthermore, silicon-aluminum composites offer excellent thermal conductivity, mitigating overheating issues. This synergy between silicon and aluminum is instrumental in advancing solar energy production, driving sustainable power solutions.