3. The semiconductor material silicon

Semiconductors play a vital role in modern electronic devices that we regularly use, including personal computers, televisions, smartphones, and digital cameras. The predominant material utilized in the semiconductor industry is Silicon, represented by the chemical symbol Si. Silicon is the second most abundant element on our planet, following Oxygen. While this element is predominantly found in soil and rocks, it can also be located in natural water sources, trees, and various plants.

In nature, Silicon predominantly appears as compounds with Oxygen, Aluminum, and Magnesium. Consequently, to procure elemental Silicon for electronics, it must first be extracted from these compounds and subjected to purification processes. The Silicon used in semiconductors, such as integrated circuits (ICs), requires a single crystal structure with an exceptional purity level of 99.999999999% (often referred to as "eleven nines"). This high purity is achieved through multiple refinement techniques following extraction.

A single crystal structure refers to an arrangement of atoms in a highly organized three-dimensional pattern, known as the crystal lattice. When atoms are aligned in a continuous and orderly manner, this formation is categorized as a single crystal. The Silicon crystal lattice features a diamond cubic structure comprising a repeating arrangement of eight atoms, with each Silicon atom bonded to four neighboring atoms. This unique bonding and stable structure are what make Silicon the material of choice for semiconductors.

However, the purification of Silicon is an energy-intensive process. For instance, in Japan, refined Silicon ingots, having a minimum purity of 98%, are commonly imported from countries like Australia, China, and Brazil, where electricity is generally cheaper.

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Silicon: Mining and Processing

These mountains hold a resource that promises to enhance the cost-effectiveness of solar energy production. The Tana quarry in Norway, near the North Cape, is where quartz—a mineral composed of 99% Silicon—is mined. This substance is one of the most critical raw materials of the 21st century, as it is found in every computer, mobile device, and, of course, solar panels. Trond Brendan-Veisal, a geologist, actively looks for rock samples that are relatively free from impurities.

Trond Brendan-Veisal notes, "If the raw materials we are using are clean enough, we won't need extensive post-production cleaning processes for metallurgical Silicon. This could significantly reduce costs." Despite having a concentrated form of Silicon in the rock, it still necessitates a costly and energy-demanding purification process before it can be utilized in industry.

In Kristiansand, clean quartz is used to manufacture high-purity Silicon. The quartz is subjected to extreme heating in a furnace, reaching over 4,000 degrees, which allows for further purification of the Silicon. This process is akin to methods used in steel production, hence the term metallurgical Silicon. However, its properties align more closely with those of semiconductors than metals. By introducing minor amounts of other elements, its electrical conductivity can be fine-tuned—a feature that is essential for the proficiency of Silicon in solar cells. The outcome of this purification yields metallurgical Silicon boasting a purity of 99%.

Brendan-Veisal expresses excitement about his work: "It's quite thrilling to hold this ingot after tracing its journey from mine to plant and finally to the end product."

This geographical area, located within the Arctic Circle, houses pure Silicon deposits that are integral for solar energy generation, despite experiencing periods where the sun doesn't shine for up to two months a year.

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