University of Arkansas Fayetteville

Multi-User Silicon-Carbide (MUSiC) Research Lab

The Multi-User Silicon-Carbide (MUSiC) Research Lab at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville will be a one-of-a-kind facility for the research, teaching and fabrication of silicon-carbide (SiC) technologies. It will be a national hub for pioneering the advancements in technologies at the core of next-generation electric power grid modernization, space exploration, and electric vehicle research and development.

The new 17,000 sf standalone facility will be the flagship building for the College of Engineering. Located within the Arkansas Research and Technology Park (ARTP), the MUSiC Lab will enable the discovery of new techniques, theory, and expertise within a united community of industrial and academic SiC researchers.

The facility will include 13,000 sf of ISO 5 cleanroom labs and 4,000 sf of office and building support spaces. The labs and cleanrooms are divided into eight research specific “bays,” so that every component of the fabrication process can be tested and iterated before moving to the next step. Each bay has unique MEP systems to accommodate different types of research and fabrication and will have space to allow for expansion to keep pace with innovation and emerging discoveries. Additional program elements include second-level catwalks above the clean rooms for access to fan filter units and other equipment, demo space for new equipment, offices, and conference rooms. Perimeter circulation creates a “gallery” providing visibility into research bays. The facility will be open to the community for tours and will also be the only fabrication facility of its kind in the US to welcome outside researchers.

Silicon-carbide is an alloy for creating microchips with a high capacity for handling heat and electricity, making it ideal for intensive use in applications like electric vehicles, rocket ships, and power grids. Bringing this facility to the University will allow the training of the next generation of leaders in the semiconductor community, as well as attract faculty and new industry to Arkansas, and offer low-volume prototyping thus bridging the gap between traditional university research and high-volume manufacturing.