Advancements in Ga₂O₃ Diodes at Tomsk State University: Pioneering Power Electronics and Radiation-Resistant Sensors

A graduate student from the Radiophysics Department of Tomsk State University has innovatively created next-generation diodes based on gallium oxide. This research is being conducted at the “Advanced Technologies in Microelectronics” center at TSU. The initial samples of the diodes have successfully undergone their first tests. This project is supported by the “UMNIK-Electronica” initiative.

The Advanced Technologies in Microelectronics center serves as a Russian competency hub for semiconductor sensors that detect ionizing radiation, particularly for multispectral digital radiography. As of the time of this report, the center is developing radiation-resistant sensors for detectors intended for fourth-generation synchrotron radiation sources, including SKIF, RIF, KISI, and SILA.

Gallium oxide is categorized as a fourth-generation semiconductor, notable for its high voltage tolerance, low energy consumption, and the potential for miniaturization of devices. China is a leader in the development of such semiconductors; however, research is also progressing in Russia. According to Nikita Yakovlev, the nation is pursuing technological independence, which has led to government support for the development of the component base.

As part of the project titled “Power Diode of 1 kV Class with a Schottky Barrier Based on Ga₂O₃,” funded by the Innovation Promotion Fund, graduate student Nikita Yakovlev and his advisor Alexey Almaev have successfully developed diodes with a breakdown voltage exceeding 1000 volts. Testing is set to take place in 2025 at the metal-oxide semiconductor laboratory within the “PTM” center at TSU, while the optimization of the manufacturing process is currently underway.

Yakovlev has noted the need to refine the technical process of certain operations to enhance the yield of viable diodes with a Schottky barrier. These diodes can be utilized in charging devices, high-power power supplies, motor control circuits, and various other applications in power electronics.

TSU has highlighted that the new diodes are expected to be in demand across various production sectors. Domestic matrix detectors are paving the way for the development of diagnostic systems applicable in science, medicine, and industry. This initiative aims to foster the growth of the X-ray and radiography sub-sector in Russia and replace imported equipment.