A wafer? Sure when you think in a wafer, you think about something delicious. But in the world of nanotechnology, wafers are not delicious, but they are useful. These are silicon wafers: one of the main components of most of the electronic components you use each and every day, such as cell phones and 
PCs. Its presence is very important for the operation of the circuits because it serves as a conductor.
You may have seen them sometimes because they tend to shine and look of many colours. But what are silicon wafers? What are they used for, and how are they obtained? Find out in this article.
What Is Silicon?
Silicon is the material from which silicon wafers are made. It is a chemical element whose symbol is Si and its atomic number is 14. In nature, it is very easy to find silicon. After oxygen, it is the most common element on the earth’s crust. The main problem of silicon is that it is not in a pure state, but to separate it from the rest of the elements, it is necessary to take part in multiple processes. Its application is very versatile and is used in things as different as the manufacture of glass, in medicine or nanotechnology.
How Are Silicon Wafers Obtained?
Separating silicon from the rest of the elements is not easy. Purifying silicon to produce silicon wafers, even less. But it is all part of a series of processes that are constantly carried out and that are usually expensive. First, the metallurgical silicon is obtained, from the separation of oxygen. This is done by heating the elements in an electric oven.
But for the world of nanotechnology, this metallurgical silicon is not yet pure. From there, a purification process must begin. The metallurgical silicon must be converted into gas, and subsequently, a reaction with hydrogen must be made. That’s called the Siemens process.
Finally, the last step is to gather all the silicon atoms into a solid product. This is done through the Czorchalski system, in which the purified silicon is heated and follows a series of steps until it is grouped then an ingot is obtained. Subsequently, this is divided, which give the shape to silicon wafers. It may be necessary to add atoms of other elements to function as a specific semiconductor. Although there are cheaper processes, obtaining silicon wafers always requires several steps.
What Are Silicon Wafers For?
Ok with this whole process, but what is the use? Silicone wafers are indispensable in electronics and nanotechnology. Its primary purpose corresponds to integrated circuits, which are in computers, smartphones and all kinds of electronic devices. This is because silicon is a conductive element, which is characterised by being stable and durable.
Its function is also crucial in solar energy. Silicone wafers can absorb photons from sunlight and from there, produce electricity. That is to say: silicon wafers are the motor of photovoltaic solar energy, don’t you think it’s amazing?
What Does The Future Expect For Silicon Wafers?
Every day, there is a greater demand in the sale of silicon wafers. For that reason and because of the complicated process, its cost has increased. That can directly affect the price of electronic devices that include them. However, new cheaper methods to process silicon have emerged, as well as new materials that could replace it. And you, are going to learn more about silicon wafers and nanotechnology?