BluGlass to manufacture diodes in Sydney

Semiconductor company BluGlass (ASX: BLG) is entering the GaN Laser Diode market with plans to manufacture and launch its first products in 2020 onto global markets.

High brightness laser diodes are used in making industrial lasers for cutting and welding, automotive and general lighting, displays and the life sciences.

The company will base its new product on its unique remote plasma chemical vapour deposition (RPCVD) technologies which provide a novel way to manufacture the group 3 nitrides used in electronic devices.

BluGlass has installed RPCVD capacity at its factory in Silverwater, Sydney with the aim of growing ‘significant laser diode revenues and build a profitable business unit.’

Meanwhile the company is seeking to secure the manufacturing supply chain to support commercialisation of laser diodes.

Australia boasts only a small scale semiconductor wafer industry while simple diodes are made in large volumes mainly for export by Robert Bosch in Melbourne.

BluGlass said in a statement its RPCVD technology and tunnel junction capabilities allow it to produce higher performing devices that bring productivity and cost benefits.

“BluGlass is developing GaN laser diode prototypes and expects to deliver its first laser diode product next calendar year.

“These new products are expected to deliver a clear path to significant revenues from CY2021.”

The company will initially focus on industrial laser diodes for welding and cutting applications.

Its RPCVD techology has already been commercialised in the field of LED lighting.

Picture BluGlass

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