The US Army is funding development of photovoltaic technology by Konarka Technologies, providing lightweight, flexible and scalable source of renewable power. These new developments are utilizing nanotechnology and conducting polymers to convert sunlight as well as indoor, artificial light into direct current electrical power. The company uses unique, proprietary low-temperature production methods to put the photovoltaic cells onto flexible, lightweight plastics.
Cold-sintering process used in the production of the new cells, allows photovoltaic cell material to be coated onto flexible plastics, rather than on glass or silicon. Therefore, the product’s shell could be transformed into a renewable power source. Under the current program, Konarka will supply prototypes of modules that will demonstrate their ability to re-charge internal batteries and operate military equipment. Future implementation of these technologies include various self-powered electronics, structures and soldier’s uniforms that will generate power.
