Development of a low-cost antireflective nano-structure manufacturing approach for large-scale glass applications to increase solar panel efficiency

The eye of moths and other natural bio-surfaces feature nanotextures that eliminate virtually all reflection of light. Scientists and product engineers are just beginning to tap into this fundamentally higher performing anti-reflection approach compared to thin films coatings currently used in all commercial products. These anti-reflective protective glass increases energy production for solar panels and enable sunlight-readability for electronic screens. In this project, we continue to build upon our imprinting approach to further developing a highly scalable, cost-effective nanotexturing manufacturing process, optimized using numerical modeling for process prediction. This work is performed in partnership with a Montreal-based global leader in nanotextured anti-reflective technologies. In this all-Canadian academic-industrial partnership, project deliverables fuel the growing international impact of Canadian companies, contribute new knowledge on high-precision advanced manufacturing technologies, contribute to the green technology movement and ultimately create new Canadian jobs for highly qualified personnel.

Faculty Supervisor:

Lucas Hof;Ricardo Zednik

Student:

Partner:

Edgehog Advanced Technologies Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

École de technologie supérieure

Program: