Wide Band Gap power semiconductor devices

Abstract

It is worldwide accepted that a real breakthrough in Power Electronics mainly comes Wide Band Gap (WBG) semiconductor devices. WBG semiconductors such as SiC, GaN, and diamond show superior material properties, which allow operation at high-switching speed, high-voltage and high-temperature. These unique performances provide a qualitative change in their application to energy processing. From energy generation to the end-user, the electric energy undergoes a number of conversions. Which are currently highly inefficient to the point that it is estimated that only 20% of the whole energy involved in energy generation reaches the end-user. WGB semiconductors increase the conversion efficiency thanks to their outstanding material properties. The recent progress in the development of high-voltage WBG power semiconductor devices, especially SiC and GaN, is reviewed.