STMicroelectronics silicon-carbide (SiC) diodes

STMicroelectronics has released its automotive-qualified silicon-carbide (SiC) diodes for onboard battery chargers (OBCs) in electric vehicles such as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) that demand high power-handing capability within a confined space. The diodes allow designers to build small power modules, which is useful for automotive applications.

The diodes employ technology to prevent high current spikes from damaging the device, said to provide 2.5 times greater over-current capability versus rated current. This enables the use of lower current diodes, which are smaller and more economical, without compromising reliability or losing efficiency.

The diodes feature increased reverse-breakdown voltage of 650 V, satisfying the voltage derating factors applied by designers and car manufacturers to ensure a suitable safety margin between normal and short-term peak voltages across the semiconductors used in OBCs. The devices build on the energy-efficiency advantages of SiC as a wide-bandgap (WBG) technology that enables lower switching losses and higher voltage ratings in relation to device size, compared to conventional silicon devices.