Platen and adapter assemblies for facilitating silicon electrode polishing

Abstract

A process is provided for polishing a silicon electrode utilizing a polishing turntable and a dual function electrode platen. The dual function electrode platen is secured to the polishing turntable and comprises a plurality of electrode mounts arranged to project from an electrode engaging face of the dual function electrode platen. The electrode mounts complement respective positions of mount receptacles formed in a platen engaging face of the silicon electrode to be polished. The electrode mounts and the mount receptacles are configured to permit non-destructive engagement and disengagement of the electrode engaging face of the electrode platen and the platen engaging face of the silicon electrode. The dual function electrode platen further comprises platen adapter abutments positioned radially inward of the electrode mounts. The platen adapter abutments are configured to bring a platen adapter into approximate alignment with the rotary polishing axis. The silicon electrode is polished by (i) engaging the electrode engaging face of the electrode platen and the platen engaging face of the silicon electrode via the electrode mounts and mount receptacles, (ii) utilizing the polishing turntable to impart rotary motion to the engaged silicon electrode, and (iii) contacting an exposed face of the silicon electrode with a polishing surface as the silicon electrode rotates about the rotary polishing axis. Additional embodiments are contemplated, disclosed and claimed.