In the overall cost structure of a solar power system, the solar photovoltaic rack typically accounts for around 10% of the total expenses. Traditionally, these structures have been made from heavy metals such as hot-dip galvanized steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys. However, with increasing demand for more efficient and durable solutions, there is a growing need to explore alternative materials.
Solar panels are usually installed outdoors, which exposes the supporting structures to harsh environmental conditions like sunlight, rain, salt corrosion, and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, the weight of each solar module ranges from 16 to 30 kg, and since they are often installed in multiple groups, the overall load on the support system can be quite significant. As a result, future solar stents must not only be highly durable but also lightweight to improve efficiency and reduce structural demands.
In response to these challenges, countries like the U.S. and Europe have started developing solar brackets made from advanced plastic materials. These new designs are gradually replacing some traditional metal options in real-world installations. In Taiwan, the Nano Carbon Tube Corporation, located at the Zhunan Base of Hsinchu Science Park, has also made significant progress in this area. Their Composites Division has developed a unique technology that integrates carbon nanotubes into plastic materials, significantly enhancing their strength and resistance to corrosion.
According to Lin, the director of the Composite Materials Division, the company's plastic solar stent offers strength comparable to aluminum alloys while weighing one-third less. It also demonstrates excellent weather resistance and corrosion resistance without requiring additional protective coatings. The lightweight and flexible nature of the material allows it to be easily integrated into building designs, reducing the load on the floor and improving aesthetic appeal.
Cai Qunxian, an executive from the carbon nanotube company, mentioned that this innovative plastic solar stent has already gained adoption by major global solar manufacturers. The product is expected to generate NT$10 billion in sales within two years and could reach a market value of NT$100 billion within five years. This development marks a significant shift in the solar industry, signaling a move towards more sustainable, cost-effective, and high-performance support systems.
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Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) is a kind of linear structural polyethylene with viscosity average molecular weight over 2.5 million and its extremely high relative molecular weight (the relative molecular weight of ordinary polyethylene is only 20,000 to 300,000), which endows UHMW-PE with extraordinary service performance, becoming a new thermoplastic engineering plastic with moderate price and excellent performance. It combines virtually all the benefits of plastics: impact resistance, low temperature resistance, wear resistance, impact resistance, chemical corrosion resistance, self-lubrication and so on.
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