A method of separating, recovering and reusing components of an exhausted
slurry used in slicing silicon wafers from a silicon ingot. In the
method, the solid particles and lubricating fluid of the exhausted slurry
are separated without decreasing the viscosity of the exhausted slurry.
The separated lubricating fluid may be collected and reused in the
preparation of a fresh slurry. Additionally, the silicon particulate and
metal slicing wire particulate are dissolved and separated from the
abrasive grains. The abrasive grains are separated into spent abrasive
grains and unspent abrasive grains. The separated unspent abrasive grains
are suitable for reuse in the preparation of a fresh slurry.