Advanced energetic deposition processes for space solar power applications

Energetic vacuum deposition process development for the production of space solar power coatings has progressed significantly over the last two decades. Primarily, a series of important advances has occurred in the nearly ubiquitous use of Ion Assisted Deposition (IAD) technology for the production of high performance optical coatings. IAD technology has positively impacted a variety of space PV applications: Emissivity coatings (5 to 7 microns of Al2O3) for thin-film CIS solar cells (measured .83); Flexible silicone (DC93-500) Fresnel concentrator lenses (Entech Inc.) coated to protect against UV degradation (darkening in space); Radiation protection of conventional solar cell covers with new AR coatings. Historical and current developments of the IAD energetic process will be discussed for solar PV and other space coating applications. In addition advanced Ion-Assisted Filtered Cathodic Arc Deposition (IFCAD) technology will be presented for its future applicability in the development of high performance thin-film solar cells and other space power applications.