Method to produce high purity germane from germanium dioxide or impure germanium compounds

Abstract

A method for the production of germane includes reacting an oxide of germanium and/or a non-oxide of germanium compound with a borohydride in a base solution. The method permits production of germane from impure germanium-containing starting materials. Catalysts for the reaction include transition metal elements, as well as oxides, hydroxides, halides, and other complexes or compounds of transition metals. Application of heat increases the efficiency of the catalyst. The methods also include production of germane through oxidation of a pure or impure oxide or non-oxide of germanium. The oxidation is effected by contacting the germanium-containing solid phase starting material with an oxidizing solution. The oxidizing solution may be a basic solution comprising a hydroxide or an acidic solution. The oxidation product of the germanium-containing solid phase starting material is converted to germane through an electrochemical or chemical reduction process.