IQE Signs Quantum Dot Laser Epiwafer Supply Agreement With Quintessent

IQE plc (LSE:IQE) has signed a purchase agreement with Quintessent Inc. to supply Quantum Dot Laser epitaxy on 6-inch gallium arsenide wafers.

The agreement extends an existing collaboration between the companies focused on Quantum Dot Laser technology for optical interconnect applications, including infrastructure used in AI data centres.

Under the agreement, IQE will provide foundry-ready epiwafers to support Quintessent’s customer sampling phase as it progresses its Quantum Dot Laser technology towards potential commercial deployment.

Agreement Extends Decade-Long Collaboration

IQE and Quintessent have worked together for approximately a decade on the development of Quantum Dot Laser technology, including efforts to transition the technology from research towards larger-scale manufacturing.

The companies previously worked to establish a supply chain for Quantum Dot Laser epitaxial wafers.

The latest purchase agreement moves the collaboration into customer sampling, although no timetable for commercial deployment or financial value for the agreement was provided in the supplied information.

Technology Targets Optical Interconnect Applications

Quintessent is developing Quantum Dot Laser technology for optical connectivity applications, including AI data centres.

According to the companies, the technology is intended to reduce power consumption and manufacturing complexity while improving reliability. These remain stated characteristics of the technology rather than independently established outcomes in the supplied information.

IQE’s role under the agreement is focused on supplying the compound semiconductor epitaxial material required for Quintessent’s customer sampling activities.

IQE and Quintessent Operations

IQE plc is a Cardiff-based, AIM-listed manufacturer of compound semiconductor wafers and materials, with epitaxy manufacturing operations in the UK, US and Taiwan.

Its products are used in applications including connected devices, communications infrastructure, automotive and industrial systems, and aerospace and security.

Quintessent Inc., based in Santa Barbara, California, develops optical connectivity technology for AI data centres. Its activities cover optical components and integrated connectivity products intended for data-centre infrastructure.