DuPont to expand production capacity for high-performance Tedlar films

04-Sep-08

As a leading supplier of materials to the photovoltaic solar industry, DuPont has announced plans to expand production capacity for its high-performance DuPont Tedlar films. Scope and site selection work is underway, targeting start-up in late 2009, pending final project approval. Upon completion, the project is expected to more than double the current global production for Tedlar, and would be the largest capital investment in Tedlar. Additional details about the expansion phases will be announced later this year. DuPont Tedlar films have been an essential component of photovoltaic backsheets for more than 25 years. Tedlar is widely recognized as the industry standard due to its weather resistance, ultraviolet resistance and moisture barrier properties. As a result, Tedlar enables solar modules to achieve long-life performance. Tedlar films also are used in key applications for aerospace, construction and graphic arts because of their durability and weatherability. DuPont anticipates that the photovoltaic market will grow by more than 50% in each of the next few years, driving demand for existing and new materials that are more cost effective. DuPont expects that its sales of several product lines into the photovoltaic industry could exceed US$1 billion within the next five years.