Wide-band-gap Materials for Optics and Electronics

Diamonds, Garnet, Sapphire, the Stars of Novel Technology

We will carry out research on crystals called “ jewel stones,” such asdiamonds, sapphires, and garnets. The transparency and vivid color whichare distinctive features of the jewel stones are the result of the interaction between light and the substance. “Transparency” occurs when visible light passes through a substance without interacting with that substance, while vivid color is the result of interaction between light of a designated wavelength (color) and a substance. By investigating the relationship between light and substances, we are developing electronic materials and optical materials which will be useful in our everyday lives, such as transistors using diamonds and LEDs with higher power-saving performance, among others.

Optronics using functional materials have excellent environmental performance. NIMS will focus on the following by material development which takes advantage of its crystal growth technology, surface analysis techniques, interface control technology, and defect control technology:

1. Ultra-wide gap semiconductors: Power electronics applications of diamonds.
2. Laser optical crystals: Development of infrared laser base material and wavelength conversion device.
3. Polarity switching materials: Application of polar crystal interface to switching devices.
4. Surface chemistry response materials: Development of sensing materials using ion beam technology.
5. Solid-state lighting materials: Development of LED phosphors by both material and process approaches.

Project Leader

Naoki OHASHI