Principal investigator: Randy Vander Wal
University: Pennsylvania State University
Industry partner: Morgan Advanced Materials
Carbon fiber felt is integral to silicon carbide wafer manufacture by physical vapor deposition. Effective thermal insulation during the high temperature synthesis (>2,600 ℃) spanning period of nearly 2 weeks is critical to energy savings while the uniformity of insulation is critical to maintain uniform temperature profiles, ensuring spatially even flux and wafer crystallographic continuity, and related high temperature furnace applications.
Deliverables from this project include catalyst identity, associated loading level, application parameters, carbonization yield (increase), comparative felt performance metrics and emissivity dependence on catalyst, felt fiber structure and efficacy of an auxiliary pyrolytic carbon coating. Quantified metrics of catalytic action will be connected to gains in carbon yield, structure, and conductivity, addressing key knowledge gaps. Upgraded manufacture of carbon felt and development for new markets requires a diverse set of facilities and personnel. Together Penn State and Morgan Advanced Materials have the synergistic capabilities and requisite expertise.