A research division will be launched to develop power semiconductors. In order to respond to rapidly growing global power semiconductor markets such as Silicon Carbide (SiC), Gallium Nitride (GaN), and Gallium Oxide (Ga203), Industry, academia, and research experts will work together.
The 'Next-generation Crystal Engineering Div.’ will be launched on the 14th, which consists of domestic semiconductor companies, universities, and research institutes.
Research division has set their goal to develop domestic power semiconductor ecosystem based on Silicon Carbide (SiC). They will also nurture enterprise development for materials, parts, and equipment companies related to SiC semiconductors.
SiC semiconductors have superior high-pressure and high-temperature performance compared to silicon-based semiconductors. It is in the spotlight as a semiconductor device for electric equipment, renewable energy, and industrial usage. There is also an active movement to develop semiconductor devices for power management of electric vehicle electronic products. This market is currently led by German, U.S. and Japanese semiconductor companies.
Research division will form domestic SiC ecosystem in order to respond to market growth in power semiconductor market. 30 power semiconductor companies including LX Semicon, SK siltron, Hana Materials, and STI, will participate on the development of realization of power semiconductor for materials, parts, and equipment.
LX Semicon will develop SiC semiconductor, and SK siltron will be in charge of SiC wafers. Hana Materials and STI will develop SiC semiconductor parts and equipment technology. Kwangwoon University, Gachon University, and Kookmin University will support SiC semiconductor research and development infrastructure, and the National Institute for Nanomaterial and Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology will help with technical support.
The research division will also form an alliance in preparation for the growth of the SiC semiconductor market. It is because the SiC semiconductor market is growing and to form a new cooperation ecosystem for materials like SiC, such as Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Gallium Oxide (Ga203) power semiconductors. They plan to exchange global market trends for power semiconductors and carry out government projects in the future in line with the growing global demand. According to Yole Developpement, a market research institute, the SiC power semiconductor market is expected to reach $6.3 billion in 2027 with annual growth rate of 34%.
<Table> Domestic Silicon Carbide (SiC) Power Semiconductor Ecosystem
By Staff Reporter Ji-woong Kim (jw0316@etnews.com)