Barrier for Continuous-Crystal-Growth Crucible

Properly designed openings permit free flow of melt while restraining pellets. Redesigned partition between growth region and melt-replenishment region of crystal-growth crucible makes it less likely crucible will run out of feed material in middle of cycle. Supply of molten silicon is maintained by addition of silicon pellets to compartment at one end of heated crucible, and partition or barrier is required to hold pellets while allowing melted silicon to flow from compartment.