Silicon metal is used in the primary and secondary aluminium industry to improve the strength of Aluminium. This ability of silicon is of importance to the automotive industry where for example components made from Aluminium Alloys provide a strong and lightweight replacement for heavier cast iron engine blocks and steel wheels. By reducing the weight in automobiles, fuel consumption decreases. As a result green house gas emissions are reduced which is a major contribution to conservation of the environment.

Due to its non harmful properties, polymers using Silicon as the base product, known as silicones, provide an alternative to hydrocarbon based products used in the chemical industry. Industrial items such as lubricants, greases and resins, antifoam agents, fabric softeners and everyday consumer products such as skin and hair care products are all made using Silicon as the base product.

Silicon is also utilized in the fast growing industries of high speed communication and solar energy. The manufacturing of semiconductor chips, optical fiber and liquid crystal displays is made possible due to the conducting properties of Silicon. Ultra high purity Silicon is being used in the manufacturing of solar panels, making it possible to use the sun’s rays to generate electricity to provide power in a large number of industrial and domestic uses, such as remote telecommunication stations, weather and irrigation projects and street lighting.

• [Editor:tianxiao]