Inventors:
Daniel L. Meier - Pittsburgh PA
Gregory T. Neugebauer - Bethel Park PA
Edward V. Macuga - Finleyville PA
Robert P. Stoehr - Pittsburgh PA
Philip J. Simpson - Bridgeville PA
Jalal Salami - West Mifflin PA
Assignee:
Ebara Solar, Inc. - Large PA
International Classification:
C30B 1534
US Classification:
117208, 117 32, 117 33, 117903
Abstract:
A process for dendritic web growth is described. The process includes providing a melt, growing a dendritic web crystal from the melt, replenishing the melt during the step of growing the dendritic web crystal, and applying a magnetic field to the melt during the step of growing the dendritic web crystal. An apparatus for stabilizing dendritic web growth is also described. The apparatus includes a crucible including a feed compartment for receiving pellets to facilitate melt replenishment and a growth compartment designed to hold a melt for dendritic web growth. The apparatus further includes a magnetic field generator configured to provide a magnetic field during dendritic web growth.