Abstract: “The present study presents a mechanism to account for the transformation of silicon carbide – polyethylene glycol abrasive slurries into thick slurries. Based on comparative observations and the results of other workers, it is proposed that the thickening behavior is the result of siloxane bonds forming bridges that connect the kerf or silicon particles which eventually increases the density of the slurry. It is further suggested that the source for this reaction would be the polyethylene glycol itself due to its possible degradation into smaller compounds after repeated use in the cutting operation.”

Keywords: SiC, PEG, thick, slurry, silicon, photovoltaic