Description
Book SynopsisPolycrystalline silicon (commonly called polysilicon) is the material of choice for photovoltaic (PV) applications. Polysilicon is the purest synthetic material on the market, though its processing through gas purification and decomposition (commonly called Siemens process) carries high environmental risk. While many current optoelectronic applications require high purity, PV applications do not and therefore alternate processes and materials are being explored for PV grade silicon. Solar Silicon Processes: Technologies, Challenges, and Opportunities reviews current and potential future processing technologies for PV applications of solar silicon. It describes alternative processes and issues of material purity, cost, and environmental impact. It covers limits of silicon use with respect to high-efficiency solar cells and challenges arising from R&D activities. The book also defines purity requirements and purification processes of metallurgical grade silicon (MG-Si) and exam
Trade Review
"I have never seen the story of alternative silicon feedstock being told so well, with the unique scientific as well as historical background of the authors. A highly recommended read for everybody interested in alternative silicon feedstock production."
—Giso Hahn, University of Konstanz, Germany
"The book is a comprehensive overview of some of the most important work in the area of silicon for solar use. Although sufficiently detailed and rigorous, it is nevertheless pleasant to read, and therefore recommended for experts and less experienced scientists or technologists"
— Francesca Ferrazza, Eni S.p.A., Milan, Italy
Table of ContentsPurity Requirements for Silicon in Photovoltaic Applications. The MG Silicon Route. Conventional and Advanced Purification Processes of MG Silicon. Elkem Solar and the Norwegian PV Industry through 40 Years (1975–2015). From Conventional Polysilicon Siemens Process to Low-Energy Fluidized Bed Processes Using Silane. Thermodynamic Research for the Development of Solar Grade Silicon Refining Processes. Index.
