IQE plc, a leading supplier of compound semiconductor wafer products and advanced material solutions to the global semiconductor industry, announced it has entered into a strategic collaboration agreement with SK siltron for the development and commercialisation of compound semiconductor products.
SK siltron pioneers next-generation semiconductor device innovation based on world-class technology. This agreement formalises a strategic agreement to develop business in the Asia market, leveraging SK siltron’s significant substrate expertise with IQE’s market-leading epitaxy capabilities.
IQE and SK siltron will focus on developing and delivering innovative epiwafers based upon GaN on SiC for RF applications in the wireless communications market and GaN on Si for power electronics applications across a range of markets. Combined, these markets represent a multi-billion dollar opportunity for GaN devices and are forecast for strong growth in consumer, telecom and automotive applications.
Americo Lemos, chief executive officer of IQE, commented, “There are tremendous synergies between IQE’s GaN pedigree and SK siltron’s substrate offerings, and we will leverage these to bring innovative solutions to market. Expansion in Asia is a key focus for IQE and we are excited to be partnering with a globally-recognised leader in advanced materials.”
Yongho Jang, chief executive officer of SK siltron, commented, “We are delighted that two world leaders in advanced materials are joining forces to jointly develop products for exciting growth markets related to GaN materials. I am looking forward to building considerable success with IQE and developing the relationship to cover a broad range of semiconductor materials.”