Silicon Carbide
Silicon Carbide is a rare earth mineral also known as carborundum. It is a semiconductor containing silicon and carbon.
Types of Silicon Carbide
Silicon carbide cannot be considered as a single material, since its material properties depend on the fabrication method. The four main types of silicon carbide are:
- Reaction bonded silicon nitride (RBSN)
- Hot pressed silicon nitride (HPSN)
- Sintered silicon nitrides (SSN)
Key Properties
- High thermal conductivity
- Low thermal expansion and excellent thermal shock resistance
- Low power and switching losses
- High energy efficiency
- High operating frequency and temperature (operating up to 200°C junction)
- Small die size (with the same breakdown voltage)
- Intrinsic body diode (MOSFET device)
- Excellent thermal management which reduces cooling requirements
- Long lifetime
Applications
The most common applications of silicon carbide are the following:
Armor Material:
Bullet resistant vests or body armor typically used for protection in law enforcement, security, and military.
Ceramic Plates:
Production of ceramic plates, thin filament pyrometry, foundry crucibles, and car clutches.