Dow Corning, a provider of performance-enhancing solutions in silicon-based technology, and Air Products have signed a long-term agreement for the supply of electronic-grade silane, which is used for producing photovoltaic cells, flat panel displays and semiconductors.
With this agreement, Air Products can have access to the silane volume to fulfil the current and future requirements of its world-wide customers along with the growth of the solar and electronic business. Since March 2011, Dow Corning has been manufacturing silane in its state-of-the-art facility in Thomas Township, Michigan, which is vertically integrated adjacent to the Hemlock Semiconductor Group’s polysilicon producing facility. The company’s ISO-9001:2000 certified silane facility will deliver silane volumes of 4,000 t every year with the same or even increased purity level.
Jim Helwick, Dow Corning Electronics Solutions’ Vice President, stated that Dow Corning jointly with Air Products, being the world-wide distributor of gas, will strengthen silicon manufacturing in the electronics industry. Jim said that according to this supply agreement, Air Products will be a great channel supporter for Dow Corning.
Wayne Mitchell, Air Products Electronics’ Vice President, stated that Air Products, having 20 years of experience in silane supply across the world, will extensively train its customers in handling and storage of silane material. Mitchell added that the company will deliver highly reliable, safe and quality solutions to the electronic industry requiring silane.
Eric Peeters, Vice President of Dow Corning’s solar business, stated that with its silane volume, the company will provide a cost-effective and reliable source of silane to the merchant industry through a global channel-to-market distributor.
Source: http://www.dowcorning.com