ESK-SIC GmbH
ESK-SIC GmbH is a successful, medium-sized production company located near Cologne and leading manufacturer of silicon carbide grains, fractions and powders. These products are used worldwide in the abrasives and refractory industries, in the solar and electronics sectors, for modern composite materials and particle filters. Specialties and ultra-fine grains are also in high demand, primarily for ceramic applications. In addition, consulting, analyses and tests are offered, especially in connection with new developments in direct cooperation with customers.
In the last three years, development has focused primarily on RECOSiC technology in order to enable SiC synthesis with a significantly reduced CO2-footprint compared to the conventional Acheson process. Basic process settings were optimized, the required technical equipment defined and possible reactant sources identified.
ESK-SIC GmbH is taking on the role of SiC producer in the SUNFLOWER project. The tasks are divided into a total of four work packages (WP): WP2 comprises the specification and subsequent production of customized SiC powder batches by recycling low-grade by-products from the SOTA Acheson process or by-products from internal SiC production. The recycled SiC should have a high SiC content (>98%) and metallic impurities of less than 0.5%. Further objectives are the adjustment of the particle size distribution and bulk density. In WP3, the ESK supports the project group in the design of the SiC-based solar receiver. Following the successful production and testing of the first receivers, WP4 will focus on processing the end-of-life receivers by grinding and adjusting the process parameters to realize a circular economy. In WP6, based on the findings of the test series, a CO2-footprint for absorber production and SiC recycling will be calculated, a life cycle analysis will be prepared and the potential of the process for further areas of application will be discussed.
Thus, the SUNFLOWER project offers ESK-SIC GmbH the opportunity to realize the vision of a SiC-based circular economy using an initial application example. In addition, the innovative and future-oriented RECOSiC technology will be further promoted through participation in the project.
Competence relevant to SUNFLOWER
Supply of emission-reduced raw SiC sinter powders based on RECOSiC technology
Calculation of CO2-footprint of used materials and the overall manufacturing process
Website
Contact person
Stefan Wild
stefan.wild(at)esk-sic.de