Glossary

Deutsch: Halbleiter / Español: Semiconductor / Português: Semicondutor / Français: Semi-conducteur / Italiano: Semiconduttore

A semiconductor is a material which has electrical conductivity to a degree between that of a metal (such as copper) and that of an insulator (such as glass). Semiconductors are the foundation of modern solid state electronics, including transistors, solar cells, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), quantum dots and digital and analog integrated circuits.

In the industrial context, a semiconductor is a material that has electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. Semiconductors are used extensively in the electronics industry, as they form the basis of many electronic devices such as transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. Here are some examples of how semiconductors are used in industry:

1. Computer chips: Semiconductors are used to make microchips that are found in a wide range of electronic devices, such as computers, smartphones, and televisions. The transistors in these microchips are made from semiconducting materials such as silicon or germanium.

2. Solar cells: Photovoltaic cells, or solar cells, are made from semiconducting materials such as silicon, and convert sunlight into electricity. Solar cells are used to generate electricity for homes, businesses, and remote areas that are not connected to the electrical grid.

3. LED lighting: Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are made from semiconducting materials and are used for a variety of lighting applications, from traffic signals to home lighting. LEDs are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than traditional incandescent bulbs.

4. Industrial automation: Semiconductors are used in industrial automation to control processes and equipment, such as robots, assembly lines, and machines. They can be used for sensing, monitoring, and controlling parameters such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate.

5. Electronic sensors: Semiconductors are used to make electronic sensors, which can detect a wide range of physical and chemical parameters. For example, semiconductor gas sensors are used to detect toxic or flammable gases in industrial environments.

Overall, semiconductors are a critical component of many industrial and technological applications. By developing new semiconductor materials and technologies, researchers and manufacturers can create more advanced and efficient electronic devices and systems.