Semiconductor Technology Laboratory

Technology that can withstand 500°C and can capture electrons.

The Semiconductor Technology Laboratory is developing a range of components based on semiconductors other than the ubiquitous Silicon. Our Silicon Carbide development has produced devices that can process signals at 500°C, approximately 400°C hotter than devices you find in most consumer electronics. These devices can also withstand very high voltages that make them ideal for applications in energy distribution. When integrated into the Smart Grid and other machinery, these devices will help save energy.

We are also designing silicon chips that can measure very low electrical signals down to within a few electrons. These systems, known as ASICs, can be found in every GE CT and X-ray machine in production today. We are currently researching new ways to process signals from X-rays, which promise to enable new leaps in the way medical imaging is done.