Research & Development

Research and development in the fields of silicon, ingoting and wafering aims to further optimize the processes in polysilicon production:

• Higher output
• Lower energy consumption
• Optimized Capex

In the crystallization processes, we are aiming to achieve a large cell yield with a greater weighted sample and shorter cycle times through process optimization.The aim is to optimize the process in future so that only cost-effective, metallurgic silicon is produced during crystallization in order for this to be used directly in the cell production process.This could mean a significant step towards grid parity, as it would reduce the cost of raw materials for the production of silicon wafers.

Processes to produce solar silicon are simulated, developed and tested in our CVD reactor and STC-TCS converter at our technical center in Blaubeuren. These systems are also utilized for customer demonstration and training purposes.

Another research and development team in Burghausen is working on the next generation of CVD reactors. These will offer significantly higher production capacities and produce silicon much more efficiently and cost-effectively.

centrotherm's team of experts that operates in research and development within the field of silicon and wafer includes 40 research physicists and engineers.