Novel Crystal Technology Inc. (NCT), based in Saitama, Japan, has been awarded a significant research and development project by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). This project aims to advance the development of beta-phase gallium oxide (β-Ga₂O₃) wafers, power devices, and power modules.
The project, titled “Development of Material Technology for High-Output and High-Efficiency Power Devices/High-Frequency Devices,” is part of Japan’s “Key and Advanced Technology R&D through Cross Community Collaboration Program” (K Program). This initiative is promoted by the Cabinet Office (CAO), the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
With a budget of ¥4.5 billion and a planned duration from fiscal 2024 to fiscal 2028, NCT will collaborate with several key partners, including Mitsubishi Electric Corporation and the Japan Fine Ceramics Center. The primary goals include:
Developing low-cost crystal growth technology for manufacturing 6-inch high-quality β-Ga₂O₃ wafers.
Advancing homoepitaxial growth technology to achieve low defect density and high production throughput.
Creating high-voltage β-Ga₂O₃ transistors with a breakdown voltage of 3.3kV or more and low on-resistance, which is less than half that of silicon carbide (SiC).
Constructing non-destructive, high-speed full-surface defect inspection technology for 6-inch β-Ga₂O₃ wafers.
β-Ga₂O₃ is a promising material for power devices due to its superior properties compared to traditional silicon (Si) and even silicon carbide (SiC). It offers higher efficiency and lower energy loss, making it ideal for applications in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and next-generation communication networks.
This project is expected to position Japan at the forefront of semiconductor technology, enhancing its competitiveness in the global market. The successful development of β-Ga₂O₃ technology could lead to significant advancements in power electronics, contributing to more efficient and sustainable energy solutions.
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