NORTH BILLERICA, Mass.—BTU International, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTUI), a leading supplier of advanced thermal processing equipment for the alternative energy and electronics manufacturing markets, today introduced its Meridian(TM) line of in-line diffusion equipment. The Meridian(TM) line includes a new second-generation spray coater, featuring topside and bottom-side phosphorus coating, along with the quartz lined diffusion furnace.

This new line expands on the original award-winning platform with the addition of bottom-side spray coating, which improves cell efficiency. The MeridianÔ coater also features an integrated design and efficient footprint. Like the MeridianÔ diffusion furnace, which features a quartz-lined process chamber, the spray coater uses corrosion resistant materials that minimize the risk of process contamination.

"Several new features and design improvements in the Meridian(TM) spray coater are a direct response to customer feedback," said Bob Bouchard, product manager for solar diffusion products. "We think this new coater will be a major step forward for in-line diffusion."

"The transition to in-line diffusion is a major step in lowering the production cost of silicon photovoltaics," said Doug Lawson, VP, alternative energy, marketing and business development. "The addition of backside doping adds to the value by not only providing a process that’s cheaper, faster and less wasteful, but one that also produces a more efficient solar cell."

BTU offers solar processing equipment for both silicon and thin film photovoltaics. In thin film photovoltaics, BTU’s equipment is used for both the CIGS and the CdTe processes. Silicon photovoltaic applications are served by BTU’s metallization furnaces and in-line diffusion systems.

BTU will be exhibiting at the 23rd European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition in Valencia, Spain, on September 1–5. BTU process experts will be available for the duration of the show to answer questions and review requirements.