Breaking new ground with silicon carbide
Optical-grade refinement of silicon carbide (SiC) from Meta is a landmark in the pursuit of a superior AR form factor.
DRIVING INDUSTRY-WIDE INNOVATION
Pioneering application
Groundbreaking research at Meta has evolved what’s possible with silicon carbide by applying it to optical-grade refinement for the first time. This industry-defining solution helps optimize overall performance and power in a lightweight glasses form factor. The material is essential to unlocking the approximately 70 degree field of view and enhancing quality to remove the rainbow effect when viewing holograms in different lighting and environments.
Through our commercial partnerships, we have demonstrated a new level of performance of optical-grade silicon carbide and optical components. We will continue collaborative efforts towards making this technology available at affordable price points. Our hope is to continue leading with what is possible in AR using advanced development of optical-grade silicon carbide to the benefit of everyone.
A MATERIAL WITH ONE OF THE HIGHEST INDEX OF REFRACTION
The potential of silicon carbide
Silicon carbide (SiC) is an advanced material at the cutting edge of innovation. Known for its ability to operate in extreme conditions, remarkable strength, and high thermal conductivity, it powers the next generation of electronics, from space-based telescopes to high-speed transistors, all while maintaining energy efficiency and durability. Think of it as the future of materials — enabling faster, smarter and more reliable tech. It’s sleek, efficient and designed to meet the demands of tomorrow’s world.
UNTAPPED POTENTIAL
Expanding use cases
While Meta has been elevating the potential of SiC in the world of wearables, companies across a variety of industries are exploring opportunities to make advancements with this incredible material. We are at the beginning of an incredibly exciting platform shift. Silicon carbide has been gaining prominence in various technological applications due to its unique properties and versatility.
Renewable energy systems
Enhanced durability and streamlined efficiency make SiC suitable for solar inverters and other clean energy systems.
Aerospace
SiC is utilized in the fabrication of mirrors and other optical components for space-based telescopes. Its exceptional hardness and mechanical strength make it ideal for these precision instruments. Additionally, SiC is used extensively in turbine blades and nozzle vanes as well as other high temperature applications, providing excellent resistance to erosion and corrosion during prolonged use.
Electric vehicles (EVs)
By reducing power loss and degradation, increasing rechargeability, and enabling faster heat dissipation, SiC allows for smaller batteries and longer ranged EVs.
Telecom
As 5G networks expand worldwide, the demand for high-performance, energy-efficient power electronics in radio receiver base stations is growing. SiC technology is becoming a preferred choice due to its higher voltage capabilities and reduced heat generation compared to traditional silicon components. This advancement enables the development of more compact and reliable power systems, capable of meeting the increased power demands of 5G infrastructure.
Quantum computing
Silicon carbide has been making significant strides in the industry and ongoing research around quantum computing. Quantum networks, spin qubits (quantum bits), and integrated quantum photonics, among many other segments have SiC at the center of attention.
LEADING THE CHARGE IN INNOVATION
The future looks bright
Due to the relative novelty of SiC, production complexity remains high for the industry at large. Meta moves forward with the intent of our breakthrough wearable devices building a portfolio to push the industry forward with what is possible. Between our innovative product showcase and the work of our partners in this endeavor, we hope to see barriers of entry and production costs lessen for anyone interested in leveraging this remarkable material in any industry.
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