Cover glass solutions
ID: SF242-0017Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Cover glass solutions

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2608203

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Apr 17, 2024 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open May 15, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Jun 12, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Jun 12, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Cover glass solutions" as part of their SBIR 24.2 Annual solicitation. The research topic falls under the Air Force branch and aims to improve space-based photovoltaic power generation. The objective is to develop alternatives and modifications to space-qualified cover glass and encapsulants that increase insolation capture and conversion efficiencies of integrated photovoltaic cells. The goal is to increase power generation from systems utilizing state-of-practice photovoltaic devices. The research will focus on three approaches: texturing cover glass to improve non-normal incident light transparency, using down-shifting molecules to convert harmful UV photons into visible wavelength photons, and developing wider bandgap, less expensive anti-reflective coatings. The project will be conducted in three phases. Phase I involves demonstrating materials capable of increased photon throughput, Phase II focuses on integrating space-qualified solar cells with the technology advancements demonstrated in Phase I, and Phase III involves developing robust manufacturing methods, transitioning the technology to established vendors, and performing qualification and validation testing. The project duration is not specified, but the proposal submission deadline is June 12, 2024. More information can be found on the grants.gov website.

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