(Sharecast News) - Semiconductor wafer specialist IQE announced the introduction of a new range of 200mm RGB epitaxial wafer products on Wednesday, specifically designed for microLED display qualification.

The AIM-traded company explained that microLEDs, which use gallium nitride (GaN) and gallium arsenide (GaAs) semiconductors, were a "disruptive" display technology that was being integrated into various emerging platforms including wearables, augmented reality and virtual reality headsets, as well as large format displays.

It said its GaN and GaAs epitaxy would play a crucial role in facilitating the rapid adoption of microLEDs.

IQE said it was planning to scale its technology roadmap from 200mm to 300mm, presenting the industry with a cost-effective solution.

"We are pleased to offer our customers the industry's broadest range of materials technology platforms for microLED display qualification," said Dr Mark Furlong, IQE's executive vice-president of business development.

"We recognise that IQE can play a critical role in accelerating the deployment of microLEDs across many end applications and the launch of this new portfolio is in line with our strategy to diversify into GaN technologies, in the high-growth display market."

At 1221 BST, shares in IQE were down 1.8% at 23.08p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.