The line between our digital and physical realities continues to gradually fade. We are surrounded by innovations like fitness trackers and electric vehicles which make up what we often hear referred to as the “internet of things (IOT)”, objects containing sensors and software that share and collect data. These connected devices simplify, automate and enhance our daily experiences. Core to the IOT revolution are semiconductors enabling the vast array of devices and systems that drive our interconnected world.  

Semiconductors are compact, powerful electronic components that include elements like chips and sensors, that process data, execute commands, communicate with other devices, connect to the internet and store memory. Whether optimizing agricultural practices with autonomous irrigation sensors or powering pacemakers that regulate heartbeats, semiconductors enable transformative technologies. As we become increasingly more connected, advanced semiconductors are essential for enhancing the efficiency and impact of the devices that link us and shape our daily lives.

Overcoming challenges with next-generation innovations 

As the electric vehicle (EV) market accelerates, it is pushing the boundaries of semiconductor technology to address pressing challenges like range anxiety, insufficient charging infrastructure and slow charging speeds. Innovations in this sector are focused on creating more efficient semiconductors that improve battery life, reduce the weight of power devices and tackle critical issues affecting EV performance and infrastructure. 

The shift to silicon carbide for long-lasting semiconductor solutions 

Recently the semiconductor industry has transitioned from using silicon-based (SI) slurries to silicon carbide (SIC)-based slurries for semiconductor chemical mechanical planarization (CMP). SIC slurries offer significant advantages over traditional slurries due to their electrical properties, including: 

• Higher thermal conductivity: SIC materials provide better heat management during the polishing process, ensuring stable conditions. This helps prevent wafer damage, improves polishing accuracy and boosts reliability.  

• Improved efficiency in power devices: Using SIC slurries in CMP allows systems to handle higher voltages and temperatures, improving efficiency and performance.  

• Greater mechanical hardness: SIC is mechanically harder than silicon, which enhances its longevity and speed in smoothing wafer surfaces because it can withstand great force without deforming. This combination makes it more durable, scratch resistant and better at delivering uniform results.   

• Lower energy loss and better performance: Silicon semiconductors waste energy as heat but SIC semiconductors can run at higher frequencies and temperatures, reducing energy loss and enhancing improved performance. 

• Thinner wafer production: SIC enables smaller and more compact semiconductor devices that are both lightweight and durable. 

• Compatibility with high-voltage applications: EVs and renewable energy systems require materials that can handle high-power demands and SIC is well suited for these challenging applications. 

Vibrantz is making strides in SIC slurries

With over 60 years of expertise in surface finishing technology, Vibrantz’s research, development and analytical resources empower us to drive innovation in the industry. Our new acidic permanganate SIC slurry offers high removal rates (from 4.5-7 micrometers per hour) and very low defectivity. This single-pass slurry yields surface finishes of 0.7 angstroms. With a total usable area percentage of 99%, it does not compromise surface quality for speed and is an ideal choice for semiconductor CMP.   

For insights and details about our next-generation SIC slurry or any of our advanced formulations, reach out to our expert team. Our scientists and commercial specialists will also be attending upcoming industry events ICSCRM and ICPT where you can connect with us in person.  

Recent government initiatives to halt climate change, like the EV Acceleration Challenge in the U.S., which aligns with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 and Europe’s Clean Vehicles Directive, continue to impact vehicle electrification. Legislations like these are encouraging the manufacturing of cleaner vehicles around the world.

We often hear about the environmental benefits of electric vehicles (EVs) and appreciate their modern features. But what lies behind the seamless driving experience drawing consumers to purchase EVs?

While vehicles today showcase a range of technological advancement driven by sensors, EVs heavily rely on sensors to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a luxury experience.

A closer look at EV sensors

EV sensors require capacitors to store energy passively until it is released on demand, ensuring a responsive power source for the intricate functionalities of EV systems.

A capacitor is composed of dielectric material sandwiched between two conductive plates. The dielectric material is an insulator that enhances capacitance and prevents the free flow of charges, ensuring that the stored energy remains stable and controlled. This neutralization enables efficient energy storage and plays a vital role in successful capacitor operation.

Your partner in electronic materials

As society embraces cleaner vehicle options, original equipment manufacturers must rely on dependable suppliers for high-performing materials. Vibrantz provides dielectric ceramic powders that offer competitive advantages, such as:

• Responsible environmental care – Our products are registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals (REACH) and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliant.
  
• Quality assurance – Our accomplished engineering and quality teams deliver lot-to-lot consistency.
  
• Technical service resources – Our highly experienced technical service team is available for guidance and recommendations on choosing the optimal product to achieve the best possible outcomes for your specific applications.
  
• Research and development – Our global research and development team supports customers in designing next-generation electronics through highly engineered formulations and hands-on assistance.
  
• Vertically integrated supply chain – We create customized proprietary products with minimal disruptions in sourcing and obtaining raw materials.

“Our dielectric ceramic powders are essential for EVs, enabling sensors to do things like filter noise, control speed, regulate temperature, detect proximity to other vehicles and objects and much more. Capacitors are fundamental to EVs because they’re inherently full of electronic circuits.”

-Heidi Van Halle, Global Commercial Director, Electronics and Surface Technology

The need for steadfast manufacturing partners has never been greater in today’s global manufacturing environment and markets. Vibrantz’s dielectric ceramic materials are a small, yet crucial piece of solving the broader sustainability challenge.

Contact our advanced materials team for more information on dielectric ceramic materials and our full range of electronic materials.