As the rapidly expanding solar cell market continues to boom, so too does the demand for silane and the need for much increased production capacity.
The sharp rise in production of thin film silicon solar cells has driven demand for silane (SiH4), a major material used during the production process.
According to a Gas Review estimate, by the close of 2008 the global demand for silane for use with solar cells will have reached 400 tonnes, with the distinct possibility that during 2009 this could soar to around 1000 tonnes.
Reactive response
Denal Silane, producer for the Air Liquide Group, has begun the process of expanding production capacity, while The Linde Group is thought to have initiated construction of a silane plant in conjunction with a German chemical producer.
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