MicroLink Devices

MicroLink Devices. It is a specialized American company renowned for its pioneering work in developing high-efficiency, lightweight solar cells using advanced epitaxy techniques. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Niles, Illinois, the company focuses on creating novel III-V semiconductor devices, particularly for aerospace and portable power applications. Its core technology involves the epitaxial lift-off (ELO) process, enabling the production of flexible, ultra-thin solar cells with exceptional performance.

History

The company was established in 2005, emerging from foundational research and development conducted under programs sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Early work was heavily influenced by innovations in molecular beam epitaxy and metalorganic vapour-phase epitaxy originating from institutions like the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. A significant milestone was achieved in 2010 when it demonstrated record-breaking efficiency for a flexible solar cell, garnering attention from agencies like the United States Department of Energy and NASA. Subsequent growth was fueled by contracts from the United States Air Force and participation in high-profile projects such as the DARPA Vulture program, solidifying its reputation in the defense and aerospace sectors.

Technology

The firm's proprietary technology centers on the epitaxial lift-off process for III-V semiconductor materials, primarily gallium arsenide (GaAs). This process involves growing multiple thin-film layers via molecular beam epitaxy on a reusable GaAs substrate, then separating the active device structure to create a flexible film. This approach enables the production of multi-junction solar cells that are exceptionally lightweight and can be integrated onto curved surfaces. Key advancements include the development of inverted metamorphic multi-junction cell architectures and techniques for bonding these thin films to alternative substrates like Kapton or aluminum, enhancing durability and application versatility.

Applications

Primary applications are in the aerospace and defense industries, where weight and power efficiency are critical. Its solar cells are integral to power systems for unmanned aerial vehicles like the Boeing Insitu ScanEagle, enabling extended flight endurance. The technology is also utilized in portable power blankets for dismounted soldiers and is being developed for high-altitude pseudo-satellites such as the Airbus Zephyr. Furthermore, the cells have potential in space applications for powering CubeSats and other small satellites, as well as in specialized terrestrial uses like building-integrated photovoltaics and remote sensor networks.

Development and Partnerships

The company's progress has been significantly accelerated through strategic partnerships and government-funded development programs. It has collaborated extensively with the United States Air Force Research Laboratory on projects like the Lightweight and Flexible Photovoltaics initiative. Other key partners include Boeing and its subsidiary Boeing Insitu, as well as Lockheed Martin. Development has been supported by contracts from DARPA, the United States Department of Energy, and NASA through programs such as the NASA Game Changing Development Program. These collaborations often focus on transitioning laboratory cell efficiencies into robust, manufacturable products for field deployment.

See also

* Alta Devices * Azur Space Solar Power * Epitaxial wafer * Multi-junction solar cell * Photovoltaics * Sharp Corporation * Solar cell efficiency * Spectrolab

Category:Photovoltaics companies Category:Companies based in Illinois Category:Semiconductor companies of the United States