Abstract

Silicon is a low density element having nonmetallic characteristics. The production of silicon from silica is discussed as is silicon refining technology. The primary uses of silicon are in the chemical, aluminum, and electronics industries. Silicon is the chemical precursor of silicones, a versatile, fast-growing market, and of advanced ceramics such as silicon nitride. Silicon forms an integral part of the aluminum parts industry; aluminum–silicon alloys are readily cast. Silicon is also important to aluminum production. Silicon forms alloys with a large number of metallic elements. Many of these alloys are of utmost importance to the production and refining of irons and steels. The most prevalent are the ferrosilicons, production of which is discussed.