Post by clarencebunsen on Oct 7, 2011 5:52:16 GMT -5
3M film turns windows into transparent solar panels
www.computerworld.com/s/article/9220547/3M_film_turns_windows_into_transparent_solar_panels
IDG News Service - 3M has developed a see-through film that turns ordinary windows into solar panels. It will go on sale next year.
The solar film, on display at the Ceatec electronics conference in Japan, is arrayed in narrow, translucent green strips with clear gaps between and then glued to windows in large patches. A square meter of the film can generate roughly enough electricity to charge an iPhone under peak sunlight, but still allows for high visibility.
The product currently generates only about 20% of the electricity that a traditional silicon solar panel does, and will cost about half as much, though the final price has not been decided.
But it is also far easier to install and takes up no additional space. 3M has strong expertise in adhesives, where its less technical products include Scotch tape and Post-it sticky notes.
www.computerworld.com/s/article/9220547/3M_film_turns_windows_into_transparent_solar_panels
