Silicon carbide transient voltage suppressor for next generation lightning protection

Transient voltage suppressors (TVS) fabricated in silicon carbide (SiC) and subjected to extensive surge testing is presented. The SiC TVS devices can work at high temperatures, have high current density capability, are smaller and have lower capacitance than comparable Si devices. They are also rugged and reliable, capable of withstanding multiple back-to-back lightning hits. These devices are expected to provide enhanced surge protection for composite aircrafts and enable high temperature power electronics circuits.