In the dynamic world of semiconductor research, the pursuit of new materials is driven by both societal needs and technological advancements. This story explores the collaborative journey of Peter Ramvall and Ashutosh Kumar from RISE Research Institutes of Sweden in the CAMART2 project, underscoring the significance of international cooperation and the thrill of pioneering semiconductor research in collaboration with ISSP UL (Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia).
The main focus of Peter and Ashutosh’s work in the project was the study and application of gallium oxide, a material with significant potential in electronics. They collaborated closely with researchers at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL), and the Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden (KTH), exchanging knowledge and utilizing each other’s facilities. Their aim is to develop gallium oxide LED devices capable of both sensing and emitting light, with practical applications such as disinfection of surfaces or water.
The New Darling of Semiconductor Research
There is a noticeable trend in the popularity of different materials in semiconductor research over time. As Peter Ramvall has observed, "In semiconductor research, there is a fashion for different materials." Gallium oxide is the latest material to gain attention. The reason for this shift is that the infrastructure has advanced to a level where we can now develop both the knowledge and the necessary tools to fully explore gallium oxide.”
These shifts are evident in the media coverage of research. Peter recalls that some researchers who worked on defects in silicon had their work rejected by journals with the explanation, "We no longer publish this kind of thing." This highlights the need to stay aligned with current trends, even if the work is fascinating from a physicist’s perspective. You cannot do research that is not really supported by society and funding agencies," Peter stresses.
When the opportunity for cooperation between the institutes arose, it paved the way for further exploration of the potential of gallium oxide materials at both research centers.
A Perfect Match for LED Development
The collaboration between the institutes will be crucial for the further development of precise gallium oxide LED construction. ISSP UL’s advanced tools and expertise in gallium oxide deposition have significantly contributed to Peter and Ashutosh’s research at RISE’s innovation hub, ProNano, where they focus on semiconductor-based nanostructures.
“What we are trying to accomplish would not have been possible if we didn’t have this exciting opportunity to exchange knowledge and facilities,” Ashutosh emphasizes.
Innovation Under Lockdown
During COVID-19, the team faced challenges in their progress and had to manage the summer school online. "It was a bit of a panic situation, and it would have been nice to teach in person. Everything was delayed, from sample deliveries to tool repairs, and people avoided the labs," Ashutosh remembers. Despite these challenges, the team made significant progress, developing a nearly functional gallium oxide LED device and conducting successful pre-measurements.
Learning by teaching
The CAMART2 Summer School was a highly appreciated key activity from the start in the project. Various lectures for students and young researchers in Riga were organized by ISSP UL. The Summer School marked the beginning of Peter and Ashutosh’s involvement in the project, during which they delivered well-received lectures on "Micro- and Nanofabrication of Electronic and Photonic Devices." Teaching proved to be a valuable experience for them, as it allowed them to delve deeply into their subject and, in doing so, gain a deeper understanding of their own work.
Interacting with the students also reinforced their appreciation of diverse cultural perspectives on technology studies. Peter Ramvall recalls a memorable moment from the summer school: "I particularly remember one student who was incredibly passionate about his work. It was truly special. I believe that technical knowledge is highly valued by society in Latvia, as it is in Asia. Being interested in technology doesn’t label you as a science nerd; it makes you a valuable asset to society. This mindset isn’t as strong in Sweden."
Was it better before?
Peter Ramvall reflects on his visits to ISSP in Riga, noting, "When I visited ISSP, it was very interesting because it felt like going back to how it used to be here. There was a time when we didn’t have to focus so much on money and time constraints as we do now. Instead, we had ideas and the freedom to experiment with all the equipment. It reminded me of how solid-state physics was in Sweden at the end of the 80s."
He was struck by the researchers’ freedom and resourcefulness at ISSP. "Their way of working, where they can build equipment themselves or with the help of mechanical engineers, would basically never happen here. It’s always too expensive because we need to cover all the costs. I felt like ideas could flow more freely there."
Looking ahead
Peter and Ashutosh see great potential for continued collaboration with researchers at ISSP UL. “In the process, we will learn more about the materials, publish papers together, and possibly explore new inventions/research areas by combining our special skills and knowledge,” Peter explains. They plan to apply for EU projects together, leveraging their combined expertise in material science and quantum research. "It is easier to build a consortium if you know the people involved, when you are on a friendly basis and know what they are doing," Peter comments.
The seamless exchange of knowledge and resources between ISSP UL and RISE has fostered a strong network of researchers and significantly enhanced the quality and impact of their work.
The ongoing partnership not only underscores the importance of international cooperation but also continues to drive innovation and address the evolving needs of society and technology in the dynamic world of semiconductor research.
Glossary
Semiconductor: A material that can control electrical signals, essential for devices like computers and smartphones. A wide-bandgap semiconductor used in power electronics and UV photodetectors.
LED (Light Emitting Diode): A semiconductor device that emits light when an electric current passes through it. LEDs are used in a variety of applications, including display screens, lighting, and indicators.
Gallium Oxide (Ga2O3): A semiconductor material with significant potential in electronics, particularly for high-power and high-frequency devices. It is known for its wide bandgap, which allows it to operate at higher voltages and temperatures compared to other materials.
Deposition: The process of adding thin layers of material to control the properties of electronic devices.
Nanostructures: Structures in materials that have dimensions on the nanometer scale (one billionth of a meter). Nanostructures are used in various applications, including electronics, photonics, and materials science.
Quantum Research: A field of study focused on understanding and utilizing the principles of quantum mechanics. The aim within quantum research is to enable the development of quantum computers, which can operate extremely fast and will be essential for advanced technologies such as AI. It also ensures highly secure data transmission and facilitates the discovery and design of novel materials with unique properties for electronics and other applications.
ISSP UL (Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia): A research institute in Latvia that specializes in the study of solid-state physics and materials science.
RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden): A government owned research institute in Sweden that focuses on innovation and development in various scientific and technological fields.
ProNano: A cutting-edge innovation hub within RISE that focuses on semiconductor-based nanostructures. providing state-of-the-art resources and expertise to support both startups and established companies in transforming their ideas into commercial products.
