Making Conductive Glass for Photovoltaic Cell | Tin (II) Chloride Method

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around methods for creating conductive, transparent glass suitable for use in photovoltaic cells, specifically exploring the application of coatings such as Tin (II) Oxide and other alternatives. Participants share various approaches, supplier information, and technical considerations related to the production and properties of conductive glass.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes applying a thin layer of SnO2 to glass using a method involving heating Tin (II) Chloride, expressing concerns about the safety of vaporizing tin.
  • Another participant humorously suggests using saliva as a coating and mentions difficulties in finding distributors for ITO glass, noting that most are located in Asia or Europe.
  • A participant discusses the challenges of purchasing small quantities of conductive glass, highlighting uncertainty about pricing and availability.
  • One suggestion involves contacting security companies for a conductive liquid previously used for discreet alarm systems, although its current availability is questioned.
  • Another participant mentions that the conductive glass market is divided between electronics/semiconductor manufacturers and window makers, with the former likely offering higher quality but more expensive options.
  • A participant shares insights from calling glass companies, noting recommendations for "Low E" glass, which has a delicate conductive coating but may reflect UV and heat, potentially affecting solar cell efficiency.
  • Concerns are raised about the transparency and durability of "Solor Cooled Bronze" glass, which is said to conduct electricity but is less transparent than "Low E" glass.
  • There is speculation about the materials used in "Low E" glass, with some participants suggesting it may involve thin coatings of metal or metal oxides, possibly including Titanium (IV) Oxide or Tin (IV) Oxide.
  • One participant distinguishes between Low E glass and ITO glass, noting that while they serve different primary purposes, Low E glass may still be a viable option for solar applications.
  • Another participant suggests confirming the coating material and thickness of any Low E glass found, mentioning typical transmission coefficients for high solar gain categories.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the feasibility and properties of different types of conductive glass, with no consensus reached on the best approach or material. There are competing suggestions and uncertainties regarding the effectiveness of various coatings and their implications for photovoltaic cell performance.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations in their knowledge about specific conductive coatings and their properties, as well as the potential impact of different glass types on solar cell efficiency. There is also uncertainty regarding the availability and pricing of conductive glass from suppliers.

  • #31
Thank you so much, for answering my question. Have you ever used transparent conductive glass before? :smile:
 
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  • #32
Yeah, I use FTO just about everyday, and occasionally use ITO. The advantage to ITO is that it can be deposited on Temp-sensitive things, like plastic, or rather I believe this is so b/c I've never seen FTO on plastic. SnO2 is transparent in all it's mildly doped forms as deposited on glasses and plastics that I've used. I say "transparent", but in actuallity there is an internal reflection and index of refraction scattering that leads to ~4% loss of light, depending on the wavelength.
 
  • #33
Hi,
That's good to know... I would like to buy FTO coated glass... but it is kind of hard to find vendors... although I found out that I can buy it from Pilkington and AFG can you tell me your source?
Thank you very much
 
  • #34
Hello everyone,

dyesol sales conductive glass they have 10ohm square meter and 8ohm square meter.
I think this are good conductive glasses with attractive price.

have a look at https://secure.dyesol.com/index.php?template=TestCell
 
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