UTILIZING QUARTZ SAND IN THE SILICON SOLAR CELL INDUSTRY: AN ASSESSMENT OF EOLIAN SAND IN SEVERAL AREAS IN LIBYA

Abstract

In the silicon solar cell industry, silicon is a crucial component. There are three types of silicon solar cells: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and amorphous. The goal of this study is to propose applications for Libyan eolian sand in the silicon solar cell industry. Twelve areas in Libya were chosen (Sabkhat Ghuzayil, Bir Zaltan, Abu Naim, Al Fuqaha, Sabha, Tanahmu, Awbari, Qararat Al Marar, Hamadat Tanghirt, Bir Anzawa, Tikiumit, and Anay sheets). Based on the publications, we believe that this is the first study looking at solar cell manufacturing in Libya. Previous studies focused on the design, operate and cost of solar cells in Libya. The results showed that the studied sands are rich in SiO₂ (73.62-98.43%), which indicates the possibility of using these sands in the manufacture of silicon solar cells.