Harness the sun

Enhancing Solar Efficiency and Sustainability with Henkel Materials

Henkel, through its adhesive technology and material innovations, plays a key role in advancing solar energy systems by supporting sustainability, energy reliability, and long-term performance. Their approach centers on creating durable, efficient, and environmentally responsible materials for solar power conversion and energy storage systems.

Why Efficient Energy Systems Matter Henkel emphasizes that energy is fundamental for societal growth and that global access remains uneven. Solar energy offers a practical and scalable renewable solution, especially for less-developed regions. Ensuring the effectiveness and reliability of solar infrastructure—including power inverters and storage systems—is key to maximizing its economic and social value.

Strategic Storage & Conversion Solutions Henkel focuses on optimizing energy conversion from solar panels (DC) to usable power (AC) and storing it through advanced battery technologies. Highlights include:

• Adoption of lithium-ion (Li-I) batteries for their high power density and decreasing costs.
• Energy storage strategies that improve economic viability by storing surplus energy for high-demand resale.
• Enhanced energy resilience in unstable grid regions and under growing demand from electric vehicle infrastructure.

Technology-Driven Material Innovations Henkel delivers essential materials for system protection and efficiency, including:

• Wide bandgap semiconductors (WBGS) in inverters, enabling higher voltage and temperature operations.
• Thermal interface materials for managing heat in power systems.
• Gasketing and sealing solutions that shield systems from environmental stressors while allowing maintenance access.

Sustainable Design & Circular Solutions Henkel is actively advancing material circularity and recyclability to prepare for the end-of-life of solar arrays. Efforts include:

• Isocyanate-free materials that reduce toxic exposure.
• Renewable-based polymers and chemistries supporting repairability and reuse.
• Commitment to innovations that reduce environmental impact from solar and wind system disposals.

The Path Forward With solar deployment exceeding 850 GW globally, Henkel’s materials are pivotal in boosting system longevity and sustainability. The company is equally focused on enabling recycling solutions, ensuring solar remains a cornerstone of renewable energy for future generations.

Read the full article here: https://pes.eu.com/exclusive-article/harness-the-sun/