Air Liquide revealed that it has invested in a PV cell manufacturing line for research and development purposes. The investment includes a crystalline solar cell manufacturing characterization line, which the company intends to use towards the development and evaluation of new concepts for the performance and manufacturing costs of crystalline solar cells.

Recently, the company bought the Silexium coating technology and associated IP from Sixtron so that it can enhance the technology and work with its customers on joint development programs. Air Liquide’s new pilot line, which will be located at its French R&D center, is expected to allow it to exhibit and improve new materials and processes for each of its customer’s needs. The line will be run by a several scientists who have an experienced background in the PV technologies.

Francisco Martins, vice president of world business line electronics of the Air Liquide Group, stated, “The acquisition of the Silexium technology and the investment in an R&D pilot line demonstrate Air Liquide’s commitment to the continued development of new supply solutions for the PV market and its support for the development of clean energies. The photovoltaic business is at the crossroads of Energy and the Environment, and requires High-Tech solutions, three growth drivers for the Air Liquide Group.”