What are the Activities of DIAMFAB at its Fontaine (Isère) Site?

Khaled DRICHE : Diamfab is a Grenoble-based startup specializing in the production of synthetic diamonds for semiconductor applications. We are a spin-off from the Néel Institute-CNRS, where teams have been working for over 30 years on the growth of high-quality synthetic diamonds for demanding electronic applications. We founded the company in 2019 with Gauthier Chicot to transform this research into tangible products: wafers that offer significantly superior performance with diamond compared to silicon.

Indeed, what are the key advantages of diamond?

KD : Diamond enables the fabrication of components capable of operating under high voltages, at elevated temperatures, and with resistance to radiation. Practically, this paves the way for more efficient, durable, and significantly more energy-saving power electronics. It is a material distinctly superior to silicon, as it does not degrade under heat and offers optimal conductivity. This is an exceptional innovation with applications across all advanced industrial sectors, including aerospace, nuclear, aeronautics, and mobility... the possibilities are infinite. This is an alternative we intend and are capable of advancing significantly.

What are your Ambitions?

KD : We aim to develop a fully French and sovereign technology. We possess the expertise and know-how to achieve this and to build an independent industrial network with a chain of partners in France. The objective is to offer a national semiconductor diamond and to foster a French ecosystem around this technology.

Is this why you engaged VÊPRES?

KD : Absolutely. It was essential to test the stability of our process in a controlled atmosphere to eliminate any elements that could interfere with our production. The manufacturing of such sensitive components demands environments that comply with extremely stringent cleanliness standards. Furthermore, the cultivation of synthetic diamonds involves the use of toxic and hazardous products, necessitating rigorous safety measures. For instance, we employ a scrubber to absorb and neutralize harmful particles and gases, thereby protecting personnel and the environment. This required working with special fluids and specific extraction processes. For this, we needed a trusted partner with robust expertise and recognized credentials. Their role was crucial in designing a Cleanroom compliant with ISO 7 standards and securing our transition from R&D to industrial production.

How did the collaboration with the teams proceed?

KD : It was an incredible experience. Moreover, they delivered ahead of schedule. Their organization and responsiveness are impressive: everything is meticulously planned, and they quickly identify solutions. However, it's not just about technical expertise; they are individuals who understand our needs, adapt to our budgetary constraints, and propose relevant solutions. For instance, from the outset, they designed spaces with future expansion in mind, allowing for easy addition of reactors should we require increased production capacity or the creation of mezzanines to accommodate more personnel. Working with Éric Bernard-Brunel and Thierry Rognon is exceptionally comfortable.

Were you referring to space for personnel?

KD : VÊPRES acted as the general contractor for all trades, managing the entirety of the construction work and the fit-out of the tertiary section: offices, meeting rooms, reception areas, and relaxation spaces. We now have a 150 m² cleanroom, as well as a 400 m² tertiary section, both perfectly integrated and arranged. As a side note, the interior design was executed by Anne-Laure Vêpres, an interior architect, who is the daughter of Guy Vêpres, former head of the company, and the granddaughter of the founder, Francis Vêpres.

Any concluding remarks?

KD : Thanks to this collaboration, we have achieved a major milestone in the industrialization of semiconductor diamond components. Honestly, we have recommended VÊPRES to other companies, and we will do so again without hesitation.