Verfügbarkeit von Metallrohstoffen für die Dünnschicht‐Photovoltaik

Availability of raw materials for the thin‐film photovoltaic on the example of gallium, indium and tellurium Gallium, tellurium, and indium are essential components used in the thinfilm technology which are predicted a growing demand. Their occurrence in the earth's crust is comparatively scarce thus they are produced and technically applied in small quantities. The trace metals are produced as a by‐product during extraction and refining of bulk metals such as aluminium, copper, or zinc. Essentially, the mining, processing and refining of the carrier element determines the maximum available production capacity. The global processing capacities of by‐products are limited, and the potentials of extraction are not fully utilized by current methods. Increasing the production of the by‐products would be achieved by increasing the production of the carrier elements or by extending the extraction capacities within an established production route. Moreover, the supply could be enhanced by processing currently untreated ores and concentrates as well as by treating residues from mining and processing.