Manufacturing Today Issue - 215 August 2023 | Page 165

____________________________________________________________________________________________________ IQE plc
epitaxial wafer products demonstrates an innovative display technology that can be built into multiple platforms like wearables , augmented and virtual reality , and large format displays .
This development is crucial in enabling faster adoption of microLEDs , as well as being a more cost-effective option . Due to its unique properties like high efficiency , fast switching speed , and high temperature performance , GaN is increasingly becoming the semiconductor material of choice in many applications , from power electronics to displays .
Value creation
As stated on the firm ’ s website , Dr Mark Furlong , Executive Vice President of Business Development at IQE , elaborated : “ We recognize that IQE can play a critical role in accelerating the deployment of microLEDs across many end applications and the launch of this new portfolio is in line with our strategy to diversify into GaN technologies in the highgrowth display market .”
From its locations in Milton Keynes , UK , and Spokane , Washington , US , the company manufactures its industry-leading range of substrates . Its two-inch-to-six-inch wafering equipment includes an extensive installation of sawing tools , precision edge rounders , and automated laser marking equipment . Postproduction , IQE boasts a handful of in-house material characterization tools to ensure product quality and conformity .
Turning to the two other areas of the business , the RF epitaxial wafers division looks after the epitaxy process , which is the most critical and demanding step in the RF semiconductor manufacturing chain . IQE has been providing GaAs wafers since its foundation in 1988 and was instrumental in manufacturing-today . com 165