Core Viewpoint - The breakthrough in the production technology of semi-insulating silicon carbide (SiC) by the team led by Xu Xianggang at Shandong University marks a significant shift in the global semiconductor materials landscape, allowing China to achieve over 50% of the global production capacity by 2025, thus breaking the long-standing US monopoly [1][25]. Group 1: Strategic Importance of Semi-Insulating SiC - Semi-insulating SiC is a strategic cornerstone in the semiconductor materials field, essential for advanced technologies such as radar, electric vehicles, and AI servers [3][7]. - The unique properties of semi-insulating SiC enhance performance in various applications, including tripling radar detection range, reducing electric vehicle charging time by one-third, and lowering chip operating temperatures by 15-20°C [3][9]. Group 2: Historical Context of US Technology Monopoly - The US has maintained a strict export control regime on semi-insulating SiC technologies since the 1990s, monopolizing over 80% of the global market at that time [6][12]. - This monopoly has severely hindered China's development in high-end applications, forcing reliance on low-end imports and alternative materials [6][9]. Group 3: Challenges Faced by Chinese Researchers - Early Chinese radar systems had to use inferior materials due to the lack of high-quality semi-insulating SiC, resulting in performance gaps compared to international standards [9][10]. - The return of Xu Xianggang and other scientists from abroad marked a turning point, but they faced significant challenges, including a lack of advanced equipment and proprietary technology [16][17]. Group 4: Breakthroughs and Innovations - After years of research, Xu's team achieved a significant milestone in 2014 by producing high-purity semi-insulating SiC crystals, breaking the foreign technology monopoly [19][21]. - By 2025, the team successfully developed 8-inch and 12-inch substrates with zero screw dislocations, establishing China as a global leader in this field [19][21]. Group 5: Industry Impact and Future Outlook - The successful commercialization of semi-insulating SiC has led to the emergence of leading domestic companies, with China's production capacity expected to reach 3.9 million wafers by 2025, accounting for over 50% of the global market [21][25]. - Continuous investment in R&D and talent cultivation is essential for maintaining competitiveness in the semiconductor materials industry and achieving breakthroughs in other critical areas [26].
美国专家:美国封锁数十年的技术,中国只用25年就彻底打破垄断!