A method is provided for transferring a single-crystal silicon (Si) film to a glass substrate. The method deposits a germanium (Ge)-containing material overlying a Si wafer, forming a sacrificial Ge-containing film. A single-crystal Si film is formed overlying the sacrificial Ge-containing film. The Si film surface is bonded to a transparent substrate, forming a bonded substrate. The bonded substrate is immersed in a Ge etching solution to remove the sacrificial Ge-containing film, which separates the transparent substrate from the Si wafer. The result is a transparent substrate with an overlying single crystal Si film. Optionally, channels can be formed to distribute the Ge etching solution, and promote the removal of the Ge-containing film.