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This discussion relates to Technology Review's article Pushing Plastic Solar Cells.

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  jwer
  

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  05/01/2009 08:58 AM

  A technical question

  Why not create multiple individual strips of plastic solar panels with different absorption wavelengths, then physically stripe them on an installation? Seems like an obvious insight, which is why I was surprised it wasn't mentioned.

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    mtarabul
    

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    05/01/2009 06:39 PM

    Re: A technical question

    A striping technique would not increase the overall efficiency. It would only stripe several different types of inefficient panels.

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  WJS5117
  

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  05/02/2009 12:38 PM

  Hydrocarbon-based materials

  It seems to me research into solar cells whose primary materials are derived from hydrocarbons is a step in the wrong direction. Silicon-based solar cells are derived from the second-most abundant element on Earth. But perhaps an argument could be made that the research with polymers should proceed on the POTENTIAL merits. That is, perhaps the gain in solar cell efficiency due to the use of polymers will FAR exceed those that can be had by silicon.

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  nightingaled
  

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  05/03/2009 10:32 PM

  I love solar chargers

  
  I love solar charger,I think we should try our best to make use of solar energy!
  at http://www.tradestead.com
  there are many kinds of good solar chargers and other good consumer electronics , I got mine there too!

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  ROQ
  

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  05/05/2009 01:58 PM

  Plastic in white

  Seems unlikely, but is this technology possible to prepare in sheets that appear white if placed vertically on walls and would they collect in that position, if south-facing?
  
  Anybody know? If it can be done, have immediate high profile application for project that would receive global publicity.

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