Font size:
Print
Harnessing India’s Chemical Expertise for Semiconductor Ecosystem Development
Context:
India’s semiconductor mission, launched in 2021 with a significant investment of INR 76,000 crore, aims to build a robust semiconductor and display ecosystem. This initiative addresses the global semiconductor shortage and aims to reduce supply chain disruptions.
The Role of High-Purity Chemicals in Semiconductor Manufacturing
Overview of Semiconductor Manufacturing Processes: Semiconductor manufacturing is a complex and multi-stage process that relies on over 150 chemicals and 30 gases/minerals across various stages. Key stages of semiconductor production include:
- Wafer Processing: The creation of silicon wafers, which are the foundation for integrated circuits, using highly purified materials.
- Photolithography: A process that transfers intricate circuit patterns onto the wafer using photoresists.
- Deposition: A process to build layers of materials, such as metals or insulators, on the wafer.
- Etching and Cleaning: Chemical processes used to shape circuits and remove unwanted materials.
India’s Chemical Industry and Semiconductor Ecosystem:
- Current State of India’s Chemical Industry:
- India’s chemical industry is the sixth-largest globally and contributes 7% to the country’s GDP. The sector is expected to grow to US$304 billion by 2025.
- India’s chemical exports include specialty chemicals such as dyes, pigments, and pharmaceutical ingredients.
- Opportunities for India’s Chemical Industry:
- China Plus One Strategy: As global companies look to diversify their supply chains away from China, India has the opportunity to capitalise on the “China Plus One” strategy.
- By leveraging its existing chemical manufacturing expertise and infrastructure, India can position itself as a reliable supplier of critical chemicals for semiconductor production.
The Role of India’s Chemical Industry in Semiconductor Manufacturing: Semiconductor production is highly reliant on high-purity chemicals and specialty gases, which play a crucial role at every stage of the manufacturing process. India’s mature chemical sector can provide vital inputs for semiconductor manufacturing, including:
- Photoresists: Essential for photolithography, the process that transfers patterns onto the semiconductor wafer.
- Etching Agents: Used to shape circuits by etching away specific materials.
- Cleaning Solutions: Critical for maintaining purity and preventing contamination.
Challenges in Achieving Purity Standards:
- Purity at Parts Per Billion or Trillion Levels
Achieving the required level of purity for semiconductor-grade chemicals is extremely challenging. Even minor impurities can impact the performance and reliability of semiconductors, so maintaining a purity level at parts per billion (ppb) or trillion (ppt) is essential.
- Limited Global Suppliers and Supply Chain Vulnerability
The semiconductor industry is highly dependent on a limited number of global suppliers, especially from Japan, South Korea, the US, and Germany. Geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and natural disasters can disrupt these supply chains, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Way Forward to boost Material Science for Semiconductor:
- Strengthening R&D in Material Sciences for Semiconductors:
- Innovation in Semiconductor Materials: India can invest in R&D to develop advanced materials and chemicals tailored for semiconductor manufacturing.
- Technology Transfer and Global Collaborations: Partnering with leading semiconductor nations for knowledge and technology transfer will help India advance its R&D capabilities.
- Global Collaboration and Skill Development:
-
- Partnering with Leading Semiconductor Nations: India’s chemical and semiconductor industries can collaborate with global players in the US, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea to gain insights into best practices and technologies.
- Investing in Workforce Training for Specialised Semiconductor Processes: Skilled labor is crucial for semiconductor manufacturing. India must invest in training programs to develop specialised skills in semiconductor processes and material science.
- Filling the Gaps in Chemical Manufacturing for Semiconductors: India can bridge these gaps by investing in specialised production capabilities and focusing on high-purity chemicals, including:
- Photoresists
- Ultrapure Water
- High-Purity Hydrogen Peroxide
- Focus on Value Addition: By producing and supplying speciality chemicals, India can add significant value to the semiconductor ecosystem beyond just fabrication.
