(DE19681075-T)      A method is claimed for making semiconductor particles, consisting of the steps: (a) defining a number of spaced-out piles (26) of semiconductor feedstock upon a refractory layer (18); and (b) directing optical energy (30) of sufficient energy onto the feedstock piles to melt them at least partially and form semiconductor particles.    USE -   Provides a method of making semiconductor spheres for highly efficient solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The feedstock is almost instantaneously fused to desired particles, precluding growth of any oxide and minimising heat loss to the underlying refractory layer and transport surface.    (EP830465-A1)      A method is claimed for making semiconductor particles, consisting of the steps: (a) defining a number of spaced-out piles (26) of semiconductor feedstock upon a refractory layer (18); and (b) directing optical energy (30) of sufficient energy onto the feedstock piles to melt them at least partially and form semiconductor particles.    USE -   Provides a method of making semiconductor spheres for highly efficient solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The feedstock is almost instantaneously fused to desired particles, precluding growth of any oxide and minimising heat loss to the underlying refractory layer and transport surface.    (JP11502670-W)      A method is claimed for making semiconductor particles, consisting of the steps: (a) defining a number of spaced-out piles (26) of semiconductor feedstock upon a refractory layer (18); and (b) directing optical energy (30) of sufficient energy onto the feedstock piles to melt them at least partially and form semiconductor particles.    USE -   Provides a method of making semiconductor spheres for highly efficient solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The feedstock is almost instantaneously fused to desired particles, precluding growth of any oxide and minimising heat loss to the underlying refractory layer and transport surface.    (EP830465-B1)      A method is claimed for making semiconductor particles, consisting of the steps: (a) defining a number of spaced-out piles (26) of semiconductor feedstock upon a refractory layer (18); and (b) directing optical energy (30) of sufficient energy onto the feedstock piles to melt them at least partially and form semiconductor particles.    USE -   Provides a method of making semiconductor spheres for highly efficient solar cells.    ADVANTAGE -   The feedstock is almost instantaneously fused to desired particles, precluding growth of any oxide and minimising heat loss to the underlying refractory layer and transport surface.