Germanium (Ge)
Verifiedsemiconductor· Ge· Germanium
Germanium is a brittle semiconductor element with a crystal structure similar to silicon, used primarily in optoelectronic and infrared applications where its narrow bandgap provides advantages over silicon. It is employed in infrared detectors, thermal imaging systems, fiber-optic communications, and specialized photovoltaic cells, particularly in multi-junction solar panels for space and concentrator photovoltaic systems. Engineers select germanium when sensitivity to longer infrared wavelengths, high-frequency signal detection, or radiation hardness in space environments is critical, though its higher cost and lower thermal stability compared to silicon limit it to niche, performance-critical applications.
infrared detectors and thermal imagingfiber-optic photodiodesspace-qualified solar cellsgamma-ray and X-ray detectorshigh-speed integrated circuitsconcentrated photovoltaic systems
Compliance & Regulations
?EAR?Conflict Free?RoHS?REACH?TSCA?Prop 65
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Young's Modulus(E) | — | ksi | — | — |
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Melting Point / Solidus(Tm) | — | °F | — | — | |
Specific Heat Capacity(Cp) | — | BTU/(lb·°F) | — | — | |
Thermal Conductivity(k) | — | BTU/(hr·ft·°F) | — | — | |
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion(α (CTE)) | — | µin/in·°F | — | — |
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Density(ρ) | — | lb/in³ | — | — |
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Band Gap(Eg) | — | eV | — | — | |
Dielectric Constant (Relative Permittivity)(εr) | — | - | — | — |
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
Regulatory Screening
Environmental
Export Control
RoHS, REACH, and Prop 65 statuses are validated against official substance lists (ECHA SVHC Candidate List, OEHHA Prop 65, RoHS Annex II). Other regulations are estimated from composition and material classification. All screening is a starting point for due diligence — always verify with your supplier before making compliance decisions.