Silane powders are used in important applications in the microelectronics industry. For example, amorphous solar cells made with silane powders are being used increasingly in consumer goods as replacements for batteries. Unfortunately, solar cell efficiency drops rapidly after production. Silane powders can also be used as catalysts for chemical conversion.

This project was aimed at developing new amorphous silicon deposition processes for the manufacture of photovoltaic solar cells. The new cells display efficiencies of 10 % and more, compared to the 4 % seen in cells produced by conventional means. The availability of more efficient solar cells is likely to have a significant impact on European energy consumption, and the low cost of this thin layer technology opens the doors to more widespread use of renewable energy.

In addition, high-efficiency catalysts for the low temperature conversion of methane in burners were also developed. Low temperature catalysts will mean increased energy efficiency of gas burners, i.e. reduced heating costs and a reduction in carbon-oxide production. Further developments are now underway with regard to industrial applications.