DuPont Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against SunEdison

DuPont Co. on Thursday filed a patent infringement lawsuit against SunEdison Inc. and its affiliate NVT LLC, alleging the solar technology company is infringing on DuPont's patented tellurium paste technology.

A representative for SunEdison didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

DuPont alleged that by sourcing and using photovoltaic cells and solar modules containing Samsung SDI Co. front-side metallization paste, SunEdison was infringing on DuPont's patent.

"DuPont will enforce its patent rights to protect our substantial investment in innovation to improve solar energy efficiency, " said Peter Brenner, global photovoltaic business marketing manager, Microcircuit Materials, DuPont Electronics Communications.

The Wilmington, Del., chemical and agricultural company has been pivoting away from lower-growth commodity businesses toward higher-growth areas, such as nutritional products and agriculture. As part of the effort, DuPont last year said it plans to spin off its performance-chemicals segments, which makes materials for nonstick frying pans and house paints.

Profits at DuPont climbed 3.9% in the second quarter, though operating earnings fell due to lower profits from the seed business, the company reported last month.

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