An overview of the critical applications for II-VI semiconductor materials in modern technology.
Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) is a stable crystalline compound formed from cadmium and tellurium. Known for its high electro-optic coefficient and high atomic number, it serves as a critical substrate in industries ranging from renewable energy to medical imaging. Below, we explore the top 5 applications that make this material indispensable to researchers and manufacturers.
CdTe is best known as the leading material for thin-film solar panels. Its optimal bandgap (~1.5 eV) perfectly matches the solar spectrum, allowing it to absorb sunlight more efficiently than traditional silicon. This results in solar cells that are lightweight, cost-effective, and capable of performing well even in low-light or high-temperature conditions.
Because Cadmium Telluride is transparent to infrared light, it is extensively used in the manufacturing of optical windows and lenses for IR spectroscopy and thermal imaging. It allows for the transmission of wavelengths that are otherwise blocked by standard glass, making it essential for night-vision equipment and CO2 laser optics.
Due to its high atomic number and density, CdTe is highly efficient at absorbing X-rays and gamma rays. This makes it a preferred substrate for compact, room-temperature radiation detectors used in nuclear spectroscopy, medical CT scanners, and space astronomy instruments.
Cadmium Telluride wafers are frequently used as the lattice-matched substrate for the epitaxial growth of Mercury Cadmium Telluride (HgCdTe). HgCdTe is the industry standard for high-performance infrared detectors used in defense and aerospace applications.
CdTe exhibits a strong linear electro-optic effect (Pockels effect), making it useful for electro-optic modulators. These devices are used to control the power, phase, or polarization of a laser beam, playing a vital role in optical communication systems and laser processing.
Whether you are developing next-gen solar cells or precise radiation detectors, sourcing the right substrate is crucial.
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