Applied SunFab Tech Center to accelerate solar innovation

ALZENAU, GERMANY: Applied Materials Inc. is pioneering a new era in photovoltaic (PV) research and development with the opening of its SunFab Technology Center, one of the industry’s most advanced facilities dedicated to next-generation solar technology applications.

The 2,000sqm center, located in Alzenau, features state-of-the-art solar module manufacturing equipment, including Applied Materials’ PECVDa and ATON PVDa systems, laser tools and fab automation software. It includes a complete sequence of equipment that is representative of the Applied SunFab Thin Film Line for large-volume manufacturing of solar circuits.

The facility will serve as Applied Materials’ principal solar R&D center with a focus on boosting module conversion efficiency and lowering production costs. In addition, the facility will provide customers with the capability to evaluate and test key systems and processes, and will enhance the existing crystalline silicon and thin film manufacturing capabilities in the region.

Mark Pinto, senior vice president, CTO and general manager, Applied Materials’ Energy and Environmental Solutions group, said: “This center is a demonstration of Applied Materials’ commitment to accelerating the growth of the solar market, advancing PV technology and reducing the cost of solar energy. Our customers need to rapidly reach high volume production to meet the demands of the growing market and this facility will enable them to do that quickly and efficiently."

"The SunFab Technology Center reflects Applied Materials’ confidence in the growth of the solar industry around the world," said Winfried Hoffmann, CTO, Applied Materials Solar Business Group. "Located in Germany, where Applied Materials employs more than 400 people, the SunFab Center will leverage the expertise and highly skilled talent in the region as well as serve as a center of excellence to attract worldwide solar talent."