CAS unit makes marked progress in solar frame material R&D

A unit of the Chinese Academy of Sciences — China's linchpin to explore and harness high technology and natural sciences for the benefit of the mankind — has made significant progress in solar frame material research and development, providing a new solution for the future development of sustainable energy.

The Thermoplastic Nylon-Based Continuous Glass Fiber Composite Material Technology, developed by the CAS Institute of Chemistry, has been applied to solar frames, which successfully passed the rigorous tests of the globally authoritative testing agency — TÜV Rheinland Group and was awarded the world's first certification for thermoplastic solar frames.

The achievement not only showcases China's innovation capabilities in the field of solar components, but also provides a new solution for the future development of sustainable energy.

A ceremony was held at TÜV Rheinland (Shanghai) on Nov 18, 2024, with relevant experts, scholars, and industrialization units witnessing the momentous occasion.

Dr Ma Yongmei, the project leader, stressed that thermoplastic nylon-based composite materials, with their outstanding weather resistance and mechanical properties, combined with the characteristics of lightweight and recyclability, have demonstrated significant advantages in terms of environmental and economic benefits.

He noted that the technology is not only applicable to solar frames but also has broad application prospects and promotional value in multiple fields such as building doors, windows and pipelines.

To this end, the research team is actively conducting formula optimization and structural design for each specific application scenario to promote the widespread application of the technology in more fields, he said.

Li Weichun, vice-president of Global Power Electronics Services of TÜV Rheinland and general manager of solar and commercial product services in TÜV Rheinland Greater China region, extended his warm congratulations to the achievement.

He said that the successful research and development and application of this technology not only highlights the continuous innovation ability of China's solar energy industry in material technology, but also provides strong support for the optimization and transformation of the global energy structure. Simultaneously, this innovative technology will also assist the photovoltaic module industry in reducing carbon emissions in export business and enhancing competitiveness, he said, adding that his group will continue to promote the application of this technology and contribute more to the development of renewable energy.

The acquisition of this certification is not only a recognition of the hard work of Ma's team at the Key Laboratory of Green Printing of the CAS Institute of Chemistry, but also another important outcome of China's continuous efforts in the global green technology field.

The CAS Institute of Chemistry will continue to be dedicated to the research and development and innovation of green technology and contribute more Chinese wisdom and Chinese solutions to promoting the transformation and sustainable development of the global energy structure.

Industry insiders noted that the innovative achievement is expected to lead to a new development trend in the solar energy industry and inject new vitality into the promotion and application of global renewable energy.