SCHMID’s Inline Alkaline Texturing For Advanced Solar Cells

The goal of the wet-chemistry station in solar cell production is to create a pyramid-like structure on the emitter side of the silicon to reduce reflectivity and enhance absorption. The choice of chemistry also influences the mode of processing: alkaline texturing is typically performed in batch systems, while acidic solutions enable faster inline processing. However, within the field of solar cell texturing equipment, SCHMID is somewhat special. The company has optimized inline alkaline tools to deliver precise front-side texturing with minimal rear-side interference. Inline systems offer better compatibility with automation setups, especially for thinner wafers.

SCHMID offers a unique combination of alkaline chemistry with inline processing, providing front-side-only texturing that protects the rear side – ideal for advanced cell architectures. Its equipment operates with a 10-lane setup, is compatible with G12 wafers, and supports thicknesses as low as 50 μm. The layout features dual-sided access with a central walkway separating processing from chemical supply and pump modules. The system achieves a throughput of up to 10,000 wafers per hour and operates without the use of nitric acid.

While primarily designed for single-side processing, it can also handle immersion with acidic processes, predominantly HF. For the latest TaiyangNews Market Survey on Solar Cell Production Equipment 2025, SCHMID also provided data for 2 of its older inline tools based on HF and nitric acid chemistry. These tools are available in 10- and 6-lane configurations, with throughputs of 10,000 and 6,600 wafers per hour, respectively.

The text is an edited excerpt from TaiyangNews’ latest Market Survey on Solar Cell Production Equipment 2025, which can be downloaded for free here.