IQE’s substrate capability is built with decades of experience in crystal growth and wafer finishing, with one of the industry’s broadest portfolios of III–V and antimonide substrates. Our substrates support applications from connectivity and sensing, to photonics and advanced device development.

Our substrates are engineered to meet the highest standards for epitaxy, with precision orientation control, epi-ready surfaces and full traceability. From GaAs to InP and antimonide platforms, we provide substrates in a variety of cuts, finishes, and packaging options, ensuring reliable performance for both R&D and high-volume production.

Decades of experience

IQE has pioneered the development of single-crystal III–V materials since its inception, tracing its roots back to industry pioneers of past decades. Over time, the Company has built an unrivalled portfolio of GaAs, InP, GaSb, InSb and InAs substrates. We have since expanded our expertise to offer leading solutions for infrared sensing, photonics and other advanced applications, serving customers around the world.

IQE Group partners

As part of IQE plc, the world’s leading manufacturer of epitaxial wafers, IQE’s substrate divisions serve both internal and external markets. Our leadership in substrates is based upon collaborative development with our global sites, enabling IQE to deliver best-in-class products to our customers. Supporting this are state-of-the-art substrate processing and finishing capabilities, with IQE Group characterisation facilities enabling bulk crystal quality and surfaces to be assessed at the atomic level, resulting in superior quality products for our customers.

Advanced manufacturing facilities

IQE manufactures substrates in both the UK and USA from fully vertically integrated operations, offering an unmatched breadth and depth of III–V material platforms. Product forms include 2 to 8-inch substrates, polycrystal precursors and speciality optical blanks, and additional offerings include polycrystal materials synthesis, Czochralski bulk crystal growth, ingot grinding, wafer slicing, polishing, laser scribing and full in-line metrology.

Commitment to sustainable operations

IQE operates ISO 9001-certified quality systems, ensuring rigorous process control, full traceability and consistent delivery. As the first III–V substrate vendor globally to achieve ISO 9001 certification, our sites also uphold ISO 14001 environmental standards reflecting the Company’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing.

Driven by innovation

IQE continues to lead the industry in advanced substrate technology, from Czochralski grown, ultra-low defect density crystals and ultra-flat large-diameter antimonide wafers to precision orientations and bespoke doping profiles. Our team works hand-in-hand with customers to ensure our substrates are tailored for cutting-edge applications, including next-generation photonics and extended wavelength infrared detection.

Explore our substrates portfolio by material to learn more about the properties, applications and specialist options available.

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