Single crystal substrates form the basis of many advanced technologies. By providing a continuous, highly ordered atomic structure, they allow researchers and engineers to deposit thin films, fabricate devices, and study materials with precision. This makes them foundational to high-performance electronic, photonic, optoelectronic and semiconductor devices.
At PI-KEM, we supply a broad range of high-quality single crystal substrates, available in standard specifications or custom grown through our trusted European partner, SurfaceNet. Together, we provide not only technical excellence, but also a secure and reliable supply chain that keeps research moving forward.
Why Single Crystal Substrates Matter
Single Crystal Substrates have a number of unique physical and electronic properties that make them ideal for specialised applications:
- Monocrystalline structure: Single crystal substrates have a continuous and unbroken crystal lattice with no grain boundaries. The uniform orientation ensures consistent properties throughout the material, increasing physical and electrical stability
- High electron mobility: The absence of grain boundaries enables faster electron movement compared to polycrystalline or amorphous materials. This property enables faster signal processing and device operation, improving overall efficiency in high-performance devices
- High mechanical strength: Without the weaknesses introduced by grain boundaries or defects, monocrystalline substrates generally possess superior strength, toughness, and reliability. This makes them less prone to deforming or fracturing under mechanical stress, which is essential for maintaining device integrity under demanding applications
- Enhanced thermal conductivity: A continuous crystal lattice promotes efficient heat transfer, allowing single crystal substrates to dissipate heat efficiently. This is vital for improving long-term reliability within high-power devices
- Optical Transparency: Many single crystal substrates, such as sapphire (Al2O3) and silicon carbide (SiC), possess high optical transparency across a broad range of wavelengths. This makes them ideal for applications in optical devices and sensors, where minimal absorption and high light transmission are require
- Uniform doping characteristics: The consistent structure of single crystal substrates allows precise and predictable introduction of dopants, creating uniform electrical properties across the material. This is essential for reliable device fabrication, enabling precise control over many characteristics required for device uniformity.
