Develop an integrated solar cell manufacturing and characterization capability atoregon institute of technology

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $1,044,999.10 Project Grant under the Congressionally-Identified Projects program (CFDA 11.617) to the Oregon Institute of Technology. The purpose of this grant is to develop an integrated solar cell manufacturing and characterization capability at the university. The grant will fund the renovation of laboratory space, procurement of specialized solar cell manufacturing and testing equipment, and the development of training programs to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students. The expected outcomes include conducting solar cell research, collaborating with industry partners, and introducing STEM education and solar manufacturing career pathways to middle and high school students in Oregon. The award period runs from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2027.

Purpose

The purpose of this grant is to develop an integrated solar cell manufacturing and characterization capability atoregon institute of technology. This equipment will complement existing research programs, increaseopportunities for collaboration with both industry and academic partners, and serve a critical need in developingfuture skilled workforce in both the research and manufacturing of solar cell modules.

Activities

This grant will include the following activities: (1) renovation of existing laboratory space to accommodate the newsolar cell manufacturing and characterization equipment; (2) procurement of the necessary equipment; (3)equipment installation and baseline testing; (4) development of training modules providing hands on experientiallearning opportunities for students; and (5) showcasing this new capability to current and future students, collaborators, and the public. Equipment procured will include various methods to deposit the thin films necessaryto build up solar cell modules (sputtering, wet chemistry, etc.) accompanied by associated ancillary processingequipment (ovens, purified water systems, etc.).

Expected outcomes

The new laboratory capabilities will be used to conduct laboratory experiments by current and future students aspart of their undergraduate education. These capabilities will also be used in the conduct of research programs atoregon institute of technology in collaboration with industry partners and other academic programs. Thesecapabilities will also be used to introduce teachers and middle and high school students to opportunities to pursuestem degrees and solar manufacturing careers.

Intended beneficiaries

Current and future students at oregon institute of technology, research faculty across the university and otheroregon universities, and industry in the region will benefit from this integrated solar cell manufacturing andcharacterization laboratory. Stem educators at all levels (including middle and high school) in the state of oregonwill benefit by having a capability to showcase for students and encourage pursuit of stem careers.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.