Who We Are

Our Origin Story

Xtal.works (pronounced "crystal works") is a recently founded spin-off company from Linköping University (LiU) in Sweden. We are leveraging the extensive knowledge in the growth and characterization of silicon carbide (SiC) and other third generation semiconductors that has been accumulated at LiU and other major universities in Sweden over the past 30 years.

Contrary to what others may claim, Xtal.works does not compete with anyone. We are unique in the sense that we want to use our strengths to develop new technologies that enable faster adoption of wide bandgap semiconductors for the benefit of mankind. Our strength is not mass production, so we are happy to pass that on to others who have that expertise.

Core Competency

Physics governs our universe, and our core competency is applying these laws to new processes using computer modelling software. Our experienced team has accumulated extensive knowledge over the years, mastering crystal growth processes and interpreting results.

While scientific publications and modelling are an important foundation, the true expertise lies in understanding the nuances of the process - the details known only to the craftsmen who wield the tools. With over 50 years of combined experience in the growth and characterization of wide bandgap technologies, our core team brings unparalleled insight to the table.

Beyond physics, entrepreneurship is in our DNA. Understanding that companies succeed or fail based on roles and operational clarity, our core team has extensive entrepreneurial experience. From successful ventures to valuable lessons learned from failures, our team's diverse resume is a testament to their invaluable insights into the business landscape.

The Team

The founders, Karl-David Läpple and Nerijus Armakavicius, want to use their creativity and expertise in wide bandgap materials to build a company characterized by environmental, social, cultural, and economic sustainability. They are joined by Olof Kordina, a pioneer in the field of SiC, who has agreed to serve as chairman on the company's board, and Vanya Darakchieva, a warrior in the field of nitrides, who also serves on Xtal.works' board.

Collectively, the core team has nearly 70 years of experience in semiconductor growth and characterization, including 60 years in wide bandgap materials. They also have 30 years of experience in entrepreneurship and building a sustainable business.

  • Karl-David Läpple

    CEO & Board Member

    Meet Karl-David, co-founder of Xtal.works and a mechanical engineer specializing in computational fluid dynamics and thermodynamics. With expertise reflected in five patent applications, he combines technical skills with a keen interest in entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices.

  • Nerijus Armakavicius

    CTO

    Introducing Nerijus, co-founder of Xtal.works and a PhD in materials science with a focus on wide bandgap semiconductors. Known for his exceptional skills in SiC and GaN characterization. Contributing to the field with a patent application and several scientific publications, Nerijus is dedicated to the advancement of materials science and semiconductor technology.

  • Olof Kordina

    CSO & Chairman of the Board

    Meet Olof, an entrepreneur with a PhD in materials science specializing in wide bandgap semiconductors. His expertise includes SiC growth, characterization, and tool design. Founder of SweGaN and TekSiC, Olof has about 40 patent applications and over 100 publications. He's passionate about pushing the boundaries of semiconductors and is dedicated to advancing materials science and fostering innovation.

  • Vanya Darakchieva

    Board Member

    Introducing Vanya, a distinguished professor in semiconductor materials at Linköping University and Lund University. As Director of the C3NiT Center for III-Nitride Technology, she is a leading authority in the field. Her expertise is shaping the semiconductor materials landscape and making significant contributions to both academia and industry.