Non-renewable energy sources, like coal and oil, are limited in supply and often contribute to increased carbon emissions. Renewable resources on the other hand replenish naturally, and can reduce pollution, mitigate climate change, and support better health outcomes for humans. Solar power is one of the most powerful alternative energy sources. According to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, the amount of sunlight that strikes the earth’s surface in an hour and a half is enough to handle the entire world’s energy consumption for a full year.
Avient worked with a progressive customer who designed floating solar panels that float on large bodies of water, and require very demanding weather resistance in harsh environments. In some cases, one float generates enough energy to power 375 homes for a year*. However, this alternative energy solution has its challenges. Existing industry solutions failed to protect panels from outdoor exposure and harsh weather conditions.
Smartbatch™ Color and Additive Concentrates offered unparalleled UV weathering protection color concentrates for our customer’s solar power stations. These concentrates are a combination of color with a functional performance-enhancing or processing additive, in one solution.
Smartbatch™ enhanced the customer’s power generation efficiency by 10%, while providing shielding to prevent algae growth. It helped them reduce their carbon footprint by reducing evaporation. Fixed in idle waters in Taiwan in this case, Avient’s integrated colorant and anti-UV solution is expected to provide 25 years of weathering resistant performance.
*1 float = 10kgs, 1 MW= 3,100~3,700 floats (3.5 MT MB)