Does the metallurgical method really have a future?
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I am in charge of a laboratory specializing in metallurgical methods in China; I have been in this industry for over 3 years and have been keeping an eye on it all along. Given the currently low prices of chemical methods, is polysilicon produced by metallurgical methods still viable? Currently, in China, it seems that the boron level can be reduced to 0.3 ppm, while the phosphorus level remains below 1 ppm. Please don’t mock the chemical method; batteries produced using this approach can still achieve an efficiency of 16%, with a degradation rate of around 1–2% (as I’ve heard). I’d really like to hear the opinions of my colleagues – is there any future for the metallurgical method?
Canada’s 6N silicon is said to be the best in the world, with boron levels stable at 0.3 ppm and phosphorus levels between 0.5 and 1 ppm. . . There are so many orders that can’t be handled – why do similar companies in China seem to be so quiet?
Metallurgical methods will eventually replace chemical methods, but presumably after I retire. . . Otherwise, I would devote myself to metallurgy. . .
The prospects aren’t good; the cost of fluidized beds is $15, and the dollar is depreciating...