Diamond: Unlocking Two High-End Sectors – Optics and Semiconductors – with MPCVD as the Enabling Technology

Leveraging its unique combination of optical and thermal properties, diamond has emerged as a critical material in both the high-power laser optics and the third-generation semiconductor sectors. Microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) equipment is the core process enabler for the scalable production of high-purity, large-area functional diamond. Chengdu Wattsine has developed a full series of self-designed MPCVD systems, offering a one-stop, domestically manufactured equipment solution tailored for optical windows and semiconductor heat-sink applications.

Diamond Optical Windows for High-Power Lasers

In the high-power laser industry, diamond optical windows serve as essential, durable components. With high transmission across the full spectrum from ultraviolet to infrared, extremely low optical absorption, and an exceptionally high laser‑induced damage threshold, diamond significantly outperforms conventional materials such as zinc selenide and sapphire. These windows reliably support kilowatt‑class industrial lasers, scientific high‑energy light sources, and radar optical systems. While traditional materials tend to suffer from thermal distortion and fracture under prolonged high‑power exposure, diamond’s outstanding thermal conductivity enables synchronous heat dissipation, substantially extending the service life of optical systems. As a result, diamond windows have become indispensable components in advanced laser equipment. However, optical‑grade diamond demands extreme crystal purity and surface uniformity; even trace impurities can cause beam loss. Only high‑performance MPCVD systems, capable of delivering the required plasma cleanliness and process stability, can meet these stringent production standards.

Diamond Heat Sinks for Next‑Generation Semiconductors

In the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry, diamond heat sinks have emerged as a key solution to the thermal management challenges of high‑power devices. AI computing chips, SiC RF devices, and 5G/6G base station power amplifiers are increasingly power‑hungry, pushing traditional copper and aluminum thermal substrates beyond their limits. With a thermal conductivity exceeding 2000 W/(m·K)—more than five times that of copper—diamond enables rapid extraction of concentrated heat from chips, effectively reducing junction temperatures, mitigating thermal failures, and enhancing power density and operational stability. As such, diamond is the preferred thermal substrate for wide‑bandgap semiconductor packaging, with market demand continuing to surge. Achieving scalable production of large‑area, high‑uniformity polycrystalline diamond heat sinks necessitates robust, large‑chamber MPCVD systems designed for industrial‑scale batch processing.

Wattsine’s MPCVD Equipment Portfolio

Leveraging its proprietary solid‑state microwave source technology, Chengdu Wattsine offers a comprehensive lineup of standardized MPCVD systems. Two representative models are specifically tailored to the production of optical‑grade single‑crystal diamond and polycrystalline diamond heat sinks, respectively. All Wattsine MPCVD systems incorporate self‑developed 915 MHz/2450 MHz dual‑band solid‑state power sources, with electrodeless discharge structures that completely eliminate metallic contamination. Closed‑loop precision control over plasma density and substrate temperature ensures the growth of low‑defect, high‑purity diamond crystals.

The medium‑power HMPS‑2100SP system, featuring a compact chamber, is ideal for R&D and small‑batch production of single‑crystal optical diamond within 3‑inch diameters, catering to laboratories and optical component manufacturers. In contrast, the 75 kW high‑power 915 MHz system employs a large‑volume annular resonant cavity, with a uniform deposition area covering 8 inches or more. This enables stable, high‑volume production of large‑area diamond heat sinks, perfectly suited for semiconductor‑grade thermal management materials in industrial production lines. All systems are equipped with semiconductor‑grade high‑vacuum components, automated gas delivery, and intelligent monitoring software, with growth parameters that can be saved and traced—offering a versatile platform that seamlessly supports both process development and mass production.

Driving Domestic Localization and Self‑Reliance

Until now, the domestic industry has been heavily dependent on imported MPCVD equipment for high‑end diamond materials, creating a clear bottleneck in the supply chain. By focusing on self‑developed, domestically manufactured MPCVD systems, Wattsine is strategically positioned to address this gap. Our equipment enables the full localization of critical processes—from optical window fabrication to semiconductor heat‑sink production—advancing the complete domestic upgrade of China’s laser and semiconductor industries.