Compound Semiconductor News is a news magazine that focuses on the latest developments in this industry. It also contains articles on common materials used in the industry, potential applications of compound semiconductors in sensing and optoelectronics, and pain points and opportunities in the industry.
Common materials used in the industry
Common materials used in the compound semiconductor industry include silicon carbide (SiC), gallium arsenide (GaAs) and indium phosphide (InP). These elements are widely used for electronics applications. They can be found in electronics products such as telecommunications, electric vehicles, and optical fiber.
The electronic industry has benefited from the invention of silicon semiconductors. Silicon is a material that is known for its excellent electrical and mechanical properties. It is also the most widely used semiconductor material for integrated circuits.
Another material that is known for its good conductivity and ductility is silver. Silver is the best conductor of electricity and is better than gold. This is why it is used in assembly processes.
Another semiconductor material is germanium. It is used in thermophotovoltaics, infrared detectors, and solar cells. Because of its superior electron velocity, it is the substrate for III-V semiconductors. In addition to being used as a substrate, it is also used in high-efficiency solar cells.
Potential applications in optoelectronics and sensing
A wide range of applications have been identified in optoelectronics and sensing using compound semiconductors. Some of these include wireless communication, human-interactive visualization, and biosensors.
The development of smart sensing systems has continued to progress with constant research on materials and fabrication processes. These devices can be flexible, stretchable, and are often wearable. However, the devices have several limitations. For instance, the accuracy of the device can be affected by external noise. Fortunately, research on novel technologies and the use of quantum structures is providing new solutions.
One of the most promising developments in this field is the use of organic-inorganic hybrid heterostructured semiconductors. Although these materials are not as popular as silicon counterparts, they have the potential to offer many advantages. Moreover, they can be used to improve optoelectronics. In the meantime, researchers are exploring the applications of other novel materials.
Another promising approach is the application of monolithic multilayers. Such materials can be selectively etched to release mechanical structures. They can also be used to create heterostructure-based physical effects.
Opportunities post-COVID-19
The global compound semiconductor industry has been faced with various challenges and opportunities in recent years. One of the major trends driving the market is the rise in demand for mobile phones.
However, the market is expected to expand rapidly due to technological advancements and the increasing use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This is likely to provide attractive growth opportunities for the compound semiconductor epitaxial wafer market.
Although the compound semiconductor market has been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak, there are many positive factors that are boosting the compound semiconductor industry. These include the increased adoption of mobile phones, the Internet of Things, and the growing 5G network.
As a result, the Compound Semiconductor market is estimated to reach US$14.5 Billion in 2020. Nevertheless, the industry is facing many uncertainties and challenges during the next two years. Among these, the cost of wafer manufacturing is the primary barrier to early adoption.
Another factor that is expected to drive the compound semiconductor market is the increase in demand for industrial solutions. This is expected to be driven by the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Key pain points in the industry
The semiconductor industry is facing both short- and long-term obstacles. Currently, there is a shortage of semiconductors, and the industry faces challenges in delivering new products and improving revenue.
It is also facing difficulties in enhancing global operations. The US-China trade war threatened to disrupt semiconductor supply chain networks. Governments are now developing policies to protect the supply chain.
There are a lot of industries that rely on semiconductors. In fact, the demand for semiconductors is expected to increase over the next decade. This growth is driven by the automotive market.
The rising trend of self-driving cars and artificial intelligence will create a new demand for semiconductors. As these technologies develop, there is a chance that they will disrupt many industries. That's why the industry is adapting to this change.
While semiconductors are essential for modern vehicles, carmakers need to ramp up production to meet demand. A recent study indicated that the average price of semiconductors for a car could rise by up to 40% in 2020.