Germanium is a metalloid. A metalloid is an element that has characteristics of both metals and non-metals. When it comes to the world of wafers, germanium is a popular material used in production. Let’s take a look at some important things you need to know about the germanium wafer.
When it comes to germanium, there are five naturally occurring isotopes. They are germanium-70, germanium-72, germanium-73, germanium-74, and germanium-76. Isotopes are two or more forms of an element with each differing from each other according to their mass number. The mass number is the number located to the right of the element, which in this case is 70, 72, 73, 74, and 76. The mass number represents the number of protons plus neutrons in the nucleus of an atom of the element. At least nine radioactive isotopes of germanium are also known.
Germanium first became important for its use in semiconductors. In fact, semiconductor use accounts for 15% of all germanium used and produced. Even more popular for germanium is its use in the manufacturing of fiber optic systems. Those account for about 40% of its overall production in the United States. It is also used to make specialized glass for military applications.
No matter the project or usage, we feature some of the highest-quality germanium in our germanium wafers. Contact us today to learn more about how we can get you germanium wafers for your next project.
