Waterbased electrically conductive adhesive for PERC-type shingled solar cells

Kayacı H. U., Ozdemir G. U., Karahalli M. E., Aksoy A. H., Guler S., DOĞANAY D., ...More

Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, vol.285, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 285
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.solmat.2025.113525
  • Journal Name: Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, PASCAL, Aerospace Database, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Communication Abstracts, Compendex, Environment Index, Greenfile, INSPEC, Metadex, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Keywords: Electrically conducting adhesives, Shingled solar cells, Silver flakes
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study explores the development of innovative, environmentally friendly water-based electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) designed specifically for interconnecting shingled passivated emitter rear cell (PERC) solar cells. Formulated with silver (Ag) microflakes and optimized polymeric additives, these adhesives aim to enhance electrical conductivity, adhesion strength, and reliability under real-world operating conditions of solar cells. By reducing reliance on conventional solvent-based adhesives, the water-based ECAs offer significant environmental benefits, including reduced volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and improved handling safety, aligning with sustainable manufacturing practices. Through systematic experimental analysis and detailed characterization, the water-based adhesives demonstrated a yield stress of 4.8 MPa and a low volume resistivity of 22 μOhm-cm at a film thickness of 25 μm. A 0.4 % increase in power conversion efficiency is obtained compared to commercial counterparts. This efficiency improvement is attributed to the uniform dispersion and stabilization of Ag microflakes within the adhesive matrix, enabled by water-based dispersion techniques. These findings highlight the feasibility and effectiveness of water-based ECAs as a viable interconnection method, providing a balance of high conductivity and eco-friendliness. This research advances sustainable, cost-effective adhesive solutions in photovoltaic technology and beyond, aiding the industry's shift toward cleaner and more efficient solar cell production.