Evaluation of Flexographic Printing Technology for Multi-busbar Solar Cells

AbstractRotational flexographic printing is a promising high-throughput technology for the front side metallization of silicon solar cells. Very low silver consumption and the possibility to realize narrow contact fingers make this technology particularly interesting for multi-busbar solar cells. Within this work, fundamental printing tests have been carried out on a flexographic roll-to-flat machine using an experimental anilox roll and elastomeric laser-engraved printing plates. A double printing process with intermediate drying step has been applied. Contact fingers down to 33μm in width and up to 8μm in height have been realized using this technology. Lateral resistances in the range 500 to 1500Ω/m have been determined by four point measurement method. These results underline the capability of flexographic printing for fine line metallization of multi-busbar solar cells