These materials are used for SiC epitaxial wafers which are then processed and installed into SiC-based power semiconductors (SiC power semiconductors).
SiC power semiconductors have strong heat-resisting properties and can withstand high voltages much more effectively than conventional mainstream silicon-based power semiconductors. SiC power semiconductors support improved power module energy efficiency and downsizing.
As a result, the demand for SiC power semiconductors is increasing rapidly in various fields, especially those for use in xEVs, railways, and industrial equipment.
SDK has the global-top share in the market and has been providing power-device manufacturers with SiC epitaxial wafers.
The company said that it had turned to in-house production of SiC wafers, which are used as the main material for SiC epitaxial wafers, with the aim of improving the quality of its own SiC epitaxial wafers and has worked to establish a stable supply system.
The decision to launch in-house mass production of 6-inch SiC wafers has come in response to customers adopting SDK's SiC epitaxial wafers made from its in-house 6-inch SiC wafers. SDK said, however, that it will continue purchasing SiC wafers from its partners to respond to rapidly growing demand for SiC epitaxial wafers for power semiconductors.
The company added that it was looking to diversify sources of SiC wafers, establishing a more stable supply chain for SiC epitaxial wafers.