silicon carbide

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. a very hard, insoluble, crystalline compound, SiC, used as an abrasive and as an electrical resistor in objects exposed to high temperatures.

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silicon carbide British  

noun

1. an extremely hard bluish-black insoluble crystalline substance produced by heating carbon with sand at a high temperature and used as an abrasive and refractory material. Silicon carbide whiskers have a high tensile strength and are used in composites; very pure crystals are used as semiconductors. Formula: SiC

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Etymology

Origin of silicon carbide

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

To achieve this, the Auburn team created innovative material structures called Surface Immobilized Electrides by attaching solvated electron precursors to stable surfaces such as diamond and silicon carbide.

From Science Daily

“In addition, the company believes that it maintains ample liquidity to continue supplying customers with leading silicon carbide solutions,” Wolfspeed said.

From Barron's

We’re looking at new materials, like gallium nitride and silicon carbide, to drive new energy density and energy efficiency.

From Barron's

Wolfspeed CEO Gregg Lowe said the potential for government support has been “very important” as the company has sought to produce more silicon carbide, a material that increases the efficiency of computer chips.

From Seattle Times

The first steps for making this particular semiconductor, known as a silicon carbide chip, happen in a factory in New Hampshire.

From Seattle Times