By Isabella Kaminski

Innovalight, a California-based company specialising in silicon inks and process technologies that increase the efficiency of crystalline silicon solar cells, has been bought by DuPont.

According to DuPont, Innovalight’s silicon inks used in conjunction with DuPont’s Solamet photovoltaic metallisation pastes boost the amount of electricity produced from sunlight, enabling the production of superior selective emitter solar cells.

Conrad Burke, Founder and General Manager of Innovalight, says: “Innovalight brings in-depth knowledge of solar devices, silicon technology and Selective Emitter technology, and DuPont adds expertise in materials science, manufacturing capabilities and global market access. Our offerings are complementary to one another and together, we will broaden and accelerate our ability to meet customer needs and address today’s energy challenges with our continued innovations.”

DuPont made over $1 billion in revenue from solar PV sales in 2010 and has set a goal to reach $2b by 2014.

David Miller, President of DuPont Electronics and Communications, says: “Innovalight has very exciting technology that improves cell efficiency and DuPont can help expedite its adoption. DuPont and Innovalight share a commitment to innovation in materials that have a common purpose – to make solar energy more efficient and more affordable.”