Thad Druffel

Thad Druffel is a Theme Leader in Solar Manufacturing R&D at the Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research, part of the University of Louisville's JB Speed School of Engineering. He holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering (2009) and degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University (2000) and Carnegie Mellon University (1990). A licensed Professional Engineer in Kentucky, his research focuses on nanomaterial synthesis, scalable solar cell manufacturing, and renewable energy innovation. His work bridges mechanical and chemical engineering to develop low-cost, flexible perovskite solar cells using printing techniques, with patents licensed for commercialization through his startup, Bert Thin Films, LLC. He also contributes to global water/energy solutions via WaterStep, a non-profit addressing clean water challenges in developing nations.

Education:

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of Louisville (2009)
• MS in Mechanical Engineering, Colorado State University (2000)
• BS in Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University (1990)

Research Interests: Dr. Druffel specializes in advancing solar energy technologies through scalable manufacturing processes. Key areas include:

• Perovskite solar cell fabrication via inkjet and roll-to-roll printing
• Copper metallization for silicon solar cells
• Nanoparticle inks for electron/hole transport layers
• Intense pulsed light annealing for rapid processing
• Sustainable energy storage solutions
• Global water-energy nexus innovations

Key Achievements:

• Recipient of the Guy Stevenson Award for graduate excellence
• Founder of Bert Thin Films, commercializing solar metallization pastes
• Over 50 peer-reviewed publications and numerous patents
• Grants from NSF, DOE, Kentucky State government, and industry

Labs & Collaborations: Leads the Conn Center's solar manufacturing team, collaborating with industry partners to scale perovskite and silicon solar technologies. Active in advancing digital printing's role in energy manufacturing through interdisciplinary research.