STMicro' semiconductor devices to enable hybrid powering of Airbus engines

Airbus and STMicroelectronics agreed to research together to develop power electronics for future hybrid-powered aircraft and full-electric urban air vehicles. The joint research includes employing less power consuming switching devices made using advanced materials such as Silicon Carbide and Gallium Nitride. Since weight and size of the systems and materials used in a aircrafts is a critical design factor, power electronics design engineers explore the benefits of wide bandgap semiconductor materials for aircraft electrification. Wide bandgap semiconductors like Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) enable the development of smaller, lighter and more efficient high-performance electronic devices and systems, particularly in applications requiring high power, high frequency, or high-temperature operations.
The joint effort to focus on developing SiC and GaN devices, packages, and modules adapted for Airbus’ aerospace applications. "The companies will assess these components by conducting advanced research and tests on demonstrators, such as e-motor control units, high and low voltage power converters, and wireless power transfer systems" said STMicro. “This collaboration with STMicroelectronics, a global leader in power semiconductors and wide bandgap technol...