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| 4 | | 5 | more reliable than those made from its counterparts. The wider bandgap of SiC facilitates switching larger voltages. Components made with wide bandgap semiconductors also operate at significantly higher voltages, power levels, and frequencies. SiC components have higher operating speeds, and power components made with SiC also offer improved efficiency for DC/DC, AC/DC, and DC/AC conversion. Thermal Conductivity Thermal conductivity (k) is an essential property of semiconductors (Figure 2). The thermal conductivity of SiC is approximately 10 times greater than that of Si. The higher the thermal conductivity, the easier it is for the semiconductor to dissipate any heat that gets generated. Because heat can be distributed more effectively with SiC, it can often eliminate the need for fans and heat sinks. When it comes to designing with SiC, systems will be more compact, exhibit better efficiency, and require smaller-sized magnetics for power applications. High Critical Breakdown Strength SiC has a high critical breakdown strength. This characteristic translates into reducing the package insulation while retaining the same voltage rating. It also provides the ability to withstand a higher voltage without changing the package size. Additionally, it permits the creation of components with blocking voltages that are an entire order of magnitude higher than what is possible with Si. Extremely Durable SiC's physical durability is best demonstrated by looking at some of its applications outside of electronics. SiC will leave scratches on an object rather than be scratched itself. When used in high- performance brake disks, its long-term wear resistance in harsh conditions gets put to the test. To be used as a bulletproof vest plate, SiC needs high physical strength, as well as good impact strength. Figure 2: The rate of thermal conductivity (k) can be defined in terms of the heat flow across a temperature difference. SiC's unique properties have been proven ideal for building electronic components for challenging applications. These applications include those involving hybrid and electric vehicles, renewable energy, power factor boost correction, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and much more. Wolfspeed is a leader in employing SiC in components, including Schottky diodes, MOSFETs, and power modules. When confronting tough and demanding application requirements, employ Wolfspeed SiC components to confidently tackle your next challenging electronic design. CONCLUSION SiC's use in flame igniters shows that it can also withstand extreme temperatures. When temperatures reach around 2700°C, SiC sublimates directly to the vapor phase, meaning it becomes a gas. The melting point of iron (Fe) is approximately 1500°C, so for a SiC component to change phase, most of the metals around it would have already melted. SiC can continue to perform at temperatures that would destroy Silicon (Si). SiC is also well respected for its chemical inertness. It is not attacked by aggressive chemicals such as alkalis or molten salts, even when exposed to extreme temperatures of up to 800°C. As a result of its resistance to chemical attack, SiC is non-corrosive and can handle harsh work environments that include exposure to humid air, salt water, and a wide array of chemicals. The ability to withstand thermal shock is another critical feature of SiC. Thermal shock occurs when an object gets exposed to an extreme temperature gradient such as when different sections of an object are at significantly different temperatures. As a result of this temperature gradient, the rate of expansion or contraction of those distinct sections will vary. In brittle materials, thermal shock can lead to fracture, but SiC is highly resistant to these effects.

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