Analysis of Process Baths in Solar Cell Production ProcessLab – Monitoring wet-chemical Processes in Solar Cell Production Monitor texturing processes reliably and efficiently with ProcessLab The production of solar cells is a highly sensitive continu-Application fi elds for ProcessLab 02 ous process. Strict monitoring and process management Texturing processes are indispensable for optimizing capacity, quality and Texturing removes contaminants from the wafer surface costs. This goes hand in hand with the demand for trace-and enhances the light-absorbing properties of a solar ability and compliant process documentation. Thanks to cell. ProcessLab determines the concentrations of the rel-proven and robust laboratory technology, ProcessLab evant components (e.g. HF and HNO ) by titration, thus 3 perfectly masters this challenge. ProcessLab makes auto-enabling precise and effi cient control of this core process. matic monitoring of the relevant parameters a matter of Direct conclusions can also be drawn regarding the con-course. dition of the baths used ProcessLab – concept and function Rinsing and preparation steps Each ProcessLab system is customized. It is designed and Rinsing and preparation baths ensure a defi ned surface individually produced for the specifi c requirements of the structure. Regular analytical control allows early detection process. This fl exible concept enables almost seamless of spent cleaning media. Carryover from previous process integration of the system, also into existing processes. steps can also be detected in good time and preventive measures taken. While pH and conductivity measurement The point in time and scope of a measurement are de-are insuffi cient for identifying or quantifying contamina-termined by the user. As ProcessLab does not have to tion, this is usually possible with ProcessLab. be calibrated, it is available at all times (including in shift operation) for effi cient and accurate analysis of a wide Additional parameters range of samples from texturing, treatment and rinsing The fl exible concept allows additional measurement processes. The analytical results are stored in the integrat-pa ra meters to be determined. Furthermore, numerous ed database and are displayed graphically in the control inter faces allow straightforward integration of external chart immediately after the analysis. The data is also avail-devices, whose measurement data are also available for able via Ethernet or as a 4...20-mA analog signal. further processing and storage (internally and externally). 03 Cost reduction with optimal yield Even small deviations in the process variables can affect consumption of chemicals. Reject costs are reduced and the effi ciency of the overall process. As a result of its high the useful life of the process baths is increased. This saves accuracy, ProcessLab facilitates preventive process man-resources while boosting competitiveness. agement, which translates into higher yields and reduced Your advantages at a glance • Customized analyzer for comprehensive process control • Longer useful bath lives thanks to optimal use of the process window • Calibration-free, absolute determinations • Monitoring of several production lines • Traceability and compliant documentation thanks to integrated data management • Integration and control of external devices including data transfer • Export and import of data via Ethernet or 4...20-mA interfaces Fields of application Alkaline and acid texturing HF/HNO /H SiF 3 2 6 H SO 2 4 Acetic acid Alkalinity Acidity Washing and cleaning pH and conductivity Rinse additives Complexing agents (NTA, EDTA,...) Rinsing pH and conductivity Alkalinity Acidity Hydrophilization H O 2 2 Alkalinity Acidity Direct measurements pH and conductivity Parameters from external devices Ordering Information 04 ProcessLab features a modular design and always con-Options sists of a complete Base Unit and optional expansion A comprehensive program of additional components is modules. The Base Unit contains all the system com-available. Here is just a small selection: ponents required for correct function, but has to be supplemented with the wet-part modules, mounted on - ProcessLab digital input and output 24 V DC the front panel, and I/O components. - ProcessLab analog input and output 4...20 mA - ProcessLab relay output 2.875.0510 875 ProcessLab Base Unit, touch screen, - ProcessLab solenoid valve module left-hinged door - Containers with liquid-level sensor in different sizes 2.875.0520 875 ProcessLab Base Unit, touch screen, right-hinged door 6.7201.200 ProcessLab MDM Controller with 1 measuring input 6.7201.210 ProcessLab MDM Controller with 2 measuring inputs www.metrohm.com 6.7201.300 ProcessLab MDM Controller pH 6.7201.400 ProcessLab MDM Controller conductivity G, CH-9101 Herisau ohm A , print Metr SW Please contact your local Metrohm distributor for further information on ProcessLab. Thanks to the fl exible and modular concept, ProcessLab can be optimally adapted Subject to change Layout Ecknauer+Schoch A 8.875.5001EN – 2009-06 to specifi c requirements.