Press release
Interface & Performance
May 19, 2023

Evonik makes debut at photovoltaic exhibition to present latest solutions for a climate neutral future  

  • New TEGO® Surten E process aids contribute to a faster and better PV wafer cutting
  • Debut of Evonik’s portfolio for photovoltaic (PV) industry in China supports the country’s transition to renewable energy
  • As one of the largest international PV tradeshows, the International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Conference & Exhibition takes place from May 24-26 in Shanghai. Evonik stand: W4-#550

Shanghai/China. Evonik, the leading specialty chemicals company, will showcase its specialty additive solutions targeting manufacturing, components, coatings and adhesives for the photovoltaic (PV) industry at this year’s International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Conference & Exhibition (SNEC PV Power Expo). Evonik will debut its portfolio for improving the overall performance and production efficiency of solar modules to the market for the first time at the 16th SNEC PV Power Expo.

Although China is globally the largest market for photovoltaics energy, solar power contributes to just a small portion of its total energy capacity today. To accelerate the development of the PV industry and better serve the country’s pledge of carbon neutrality, more efficient and cost-effective utilization of PV systems is indispensable.

“Empowering more ecologically responsible energy management systems and processes is of great significance for Evonik,” said Dr. Benjamin Brehmer, Global Segment Manager Energy & Storage at Evonik’s Interface & Performance business line. “We work closely with local customers and partners to solve individual needs and evolve together to satisfy the drastically transforming photovoltaic industry.”

As one of the key products to be showcased at the expo, the newly launched TEGO® Surten E wetting agents and defoamers target wire saw cutting of silicon ingots, a key step in the production of PV cells based on crystalline silicon. Due to the shifting of silicon ingots to harder and more brittle materials with increased size and geometry, solar module manufacturers are adopting high-performance wafer cutting processes with faster draw speeds and thinner wire diameters, which also sets ever-increasing standards for more advanced cutting fluids.

A formulation containing TEGO® Surten E with an ultra-low dynamic surface tension can effectively and durably remove cutting swarf, leading to a drastically better cut quality ratio (more A+ vs. A-) at higher cutting speeds and much lower dosing rates. The improved cutting process results in higher cell efficiency, better economic balance and a more sustainable operation. Meanwhile, the ideal wetting behavior of TEGO® Surten E products enhances the overall cooling performance of the fluid, ensuring a longer durability of the diamond wire.

In addition to the innovative process aids, Evonik also brings together a wide range of products at SNEC, including Dynasylan® functional silanes, VESTOPLAST® as raw material for adhesives and sealants, and POLYVEST® plasticizers. These solutions can either boost the performance of coating adhesion, improve mechanical property and aging resistance of EVA/POE films, or provide excellent adhesion for solar cells and panels.

 

Visit Evonik’s tradeshow stand #550 in Hall W4 of Shanghai New International Expo Centre, or follow the Evonik WeChat account to learn more.

Company information

Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €18.5 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.49 billion in 2022. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for customers. About 34,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life today and tomorrow.

Asia Pacific is a strong driving force of the global economy and an important source of innovation. Consequently Evonik endeavors to further grow its business in the region. Sales reached €3.78 billion in 2022 and the company employs around 5,200 people at more than 50 sites in Asia Pacific.

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.