Crystal IS and Asahi Kasei Achieve 99% Usable Area Milestone on 100 mm Bulk Aluminum Nitride Substrate

Crystal IS, a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei, revealed today the commencement of serial production for 100 mm diameter single-crystal aluminum nitride (AlN) substrates boasting a remarkable 99% usable area. This advancement meets the current specifications for UVC LEDs and will be manufactured in the United States. The exceptional properties of AlN, including its ultra-wide bandgap and high thermal conductivity, contribute to enhanced device reliability and performance, benefiting not only UVC LEDs but also forthcoming RF and power devices. After the initial introduction of the 100 mm diameter AlN in 2023, the company has now unveiled enhanced wafer quality, aligning with specifications for UVC LEDs.

Eoin Connolly, President and CEO of Crystal IS, stated that the enhancement of their large diameter substrate quality over the past nine months reflects the proficiency of their Crystal Growth team. He mentioned that the inherent thermal advantages of aluminum nitride have the potential to facilitate the development of higher-performing RF and power devices in critical mission and telecom applications. Connolly expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with their partners to continue advancing this material to meet their requirements.

This milestone builds upon the company's previous announcement in August 2023, marking the introduction of the first-ever recorded 100 mm diameter substrate. This groundbreaking achievement garnered the Grand Prize in the Electronic Materials for Semiconductors category at the esteemed 2024 Semiconductor of the Year Awards. Organized by Electronic Device Industry News, a prominent industry journal published in Tokyo by Sangyo Times, Inc., these awards recognize outstanding contributions and innovations within the semiconductor sector. Crystal IS' success underscores their dedication to advancing technology and underscores their position as a leader in the field of electronic materials.

Crystal IS, an Asahi Kasei company, is a manufacturer of bulk single-crystal aluminum nitride (AlN) substrates, has achieved a breakthrough by scaling up production to 100 millimeters in diameter. This advancement, achieved at their New York headquarters, paves the way for broader applications of AlN beyond their current focus on UVC LEDs.  Previously, they offered only 2-inch diameter substrates for research and development in RF and power devices (late 2023). The larger size allows for easier integration into existing fabrication lines, accelerating the development of next-generation devices. Crystal IS plans to supply these 100 mm substrates, manufactured exclusively in the US, to its key partners in the current year.

Asahi Kasei Group has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals globally. Initially focusing on ammonia and cellulose fiber industries, the company has continuously expanded its reach by adapting its business portfolio to align with the changing demands of each era. Through proactive evolution, Asahi Kasei has fostered sustained growth and remained responsive to the evolving needs of society across diverse sectors.