Development of a process for high capacity-arc heater production of siliconThe realization of low cost, electric power from large-area silicon, photovoltaic arrays will depend on the development of new methods for large capacity production of solar grade (SG) silicon with a cost of less than $10 per kilogram by 1986 (established Department of Energy goal). The objective of the program is to develop a method to produce SG silicon in large quantities based on the high temperature-sodium reduction of silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4) to yield molten silicon and the coproduct salt vapor (NaCl). Commercial ac electric arc heaters will be utilized to provide a hyper-heated mixture of argon and hydrogen which will furnish the required process energy. The reactor is designed for a nominal silicon flow rate of 45 kg/hr. Analyses and designs have been conducted to evaluate the process and complete the initial design of the experimental verification unit.
Document ID
19790056929
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Reed, W. H. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. Trafford, PA, United States)
Meyer, T. N. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. Trafford, PA, United States)
Fey, M. G. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. Power Circuit Breaker Div., Trafford, Pa., United States)
Harvey, F. J. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. Trafford, PA, United States)
Arcella, F. G. (Westinghouse Research and Development Center Pittsburgh, Pa., United States)