skip to main content
OSTI.GOV title logo U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Title: Research and development of low cost processes for integrated solar arrays. Final report, April 15, 1974--January 14, 1976

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/7322549· OSTI ID:7322549

Results of a program to study process routes leading to a low cost large area integrated silicon solar array manufacture for terrestrial applications are reported. Potential processes for the production of solar-grade silicon are evaluated from thermodynamic, economic, and technical feasibility points of view. Upgrading of the present arc-furnace process is found most favorable. Experimental studies of the Si/SiF/sub 4/ transport and purification process show considerable impurity removal and reasonable transport rates. Silicon deformation experiments indicate production of silicon sheet by rolling at 1350/sup 0/C is feasible. Significant recrystallization by strain-anneal technique has been observed. Experimental recrystallization studies using an electron beam line source are discussed. A maximum recrystallization velocity of approximately 9 m/hr is calculated for silicon sheet. A comparative process rating technique based on detailed cost analysis is presented.

Research Organization:
Univ. of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA (United States); Dow Corning Corp., Hemlock, MI (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
E(11-1)-2721
OSTI ID:
7322549
Report Number(s):
COO-2721-76/1
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English