12 May 2003 - Japan's Dai Nippon Printing Co. has developed two materials, for use in solar power systems, that do not release toxic fumes in either the production or incineration process, according to company officials.

The firm, which has already begun shipping samples of the materials, aims to begin mass production in October. Aggregate sales are targeted at 2bn yen ($17.11m) in fiscal 2005.

One of the new materials is a film that covers the back of a solar power system. The other serves as filling for the spaces between a glass sheet and the film where power generating devices are located.

The filling is made of a polyethylene-based thermoplastic resin so it can be removed after being heated. This makes it possible to replace the filling and extend the life of the power cells. It does not release any toxic fumes when produced or incinerated.

The price of the filling is about the same as that of existing products, while the film will be about 30-40 per cent cheaper.