What is flexible PV technology?

Flexible PV technologies require highly functional materials, compatible processes, and suitable equipment. The highlighting features of flexible PV devices are their low weight and foldability. Appropriate materials as substrates are essential to realize flexible PV devices with stable and excellent performance.

Are flexible solar cells the future of photovoltaic technology?

For the previous few decades, the photovoltaic (PV) market was dominated by silicon-based solar cells. However, it will transition to PV technology based on flexible solar cells recently because of increasing demand for devices with high flexibility, lightweight, conformability, and bendability.

Are flexible photovoltaics (PVs) beyond Silicon possible?

Recent advancements for flexible photovoltaics (PVs) beyond silicon are discussed. Flexible PV technologies (materials to module fabrication) are reviewed. The study approaches the technology pathways to flexible PVs beyond Si. For the previous few decades, the photovoltaic (PV) market was dominated by silicon-based solar cells.

Are DSCs the most promising PV technology of the future?

Estimated market share of PV technologies in (a) 2014, (b) 2020 and (c) 2030. DSCs are being regarded as the most promising PV technology of the future because of their high theoretical efficiency, comparatively simple manufacturing processes, and low cost of manufacturing .

Which materials are used for flexible PV devices?

To date, metal foil, ultrathin glass, and plastic have been suggested as alternate flexible substrate materials (Table 1). Among them, plastic (polymer) substrates have been widely used for conventional flexible PV devices.

What technologies are used in PV energy production?

Conventionally, commercial production of PV energy has been centered around crystalline silicon and thin-film technologies (e.g., Cadmium telluride (CdTe) and Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)).