This letter describes how the temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity in semiconductors may be used to produce a linear floating molten zone which is intrinsically stable and uniform along its length. An analytical model and an experimental demonstration of such electric molten zone are both presented. This effect may be of particular interest for crystal growth and semiconductor recrystallization.

Topics
Thermal conductivity, Crystallization, Crystallography, Electrical conductivity, Electrical resistivity, Semiconductors, Superconductivity, Thermodynamic states and processes, Alloys, Materials treatment
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© 2007 American Institute of Physics.
2007
American Institute of Physics
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