Plasma technology plays a key role in modern semiconductor fabrication. It is used for etching, depositing films, cleaning, and modifying surfaces, making chips smaller, faster, and more reliable.
Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD)
Uses plasma to deposit thin films on wafers at lower temperatures than traditional methods.
Creates layers like silicon dioxide and silicon nitride.
Benefits: faster deposition, tunable properties, and compatibility with delicate materials.
Advanced variants like LEPECVD allow precise growth of silicon and germanium layers.
Plasma Etching
Removes material from wafers using reactive ions, allowing precise patterns.
Types:
Reactive-Ion Etching (RIE): directional etching for fine structures.
Atomic Layer Etching (ALE): atomic-level precision.
Deep Reactive-Ion Etching (DRIE): creates deep trenches for MEMS and 3D chips.
Plasma Cleaning & Ashing
Removes contaminants and photoresist without harsh chemicals.
Prepares surfaces for better adhesion and higher yields.
Remote plasma reduces damage to delicate structures.
Surface Treatment & Plasma Dicing
Plasma can activate surfaces or introduce dopants precisely.
Plasma dicing separates chips more accurately than mechanical sawing.
Advantages of Plasma in Semiconductors
Precision: Enables nanometer-level control.
Material versatility: Works with silicon, GaN, graphene, and more.
Environmental benefits: Uses fewer harmful chemicals, reducing waste.
Plasma is essential for creating modern semiconductors. From depositing films to precise etching and cleaning, it allows manufacturers to build smaller, more efficient, and higher-performing chips while reducing chemical waste.
Are you looking for top talent in the Specialty Chemical, Advanced Materials, or Animal Health industry?
Contact us to discuss how we can bring top leadership talent to your team. Boaz Partners is a premier executive search firm focused on the direct recruitment of executives and professionals in the specialty chemicals, advanced materials, and animal health spaces. We are your partner, and our focus is on custom recruiting solutions. Follow the link to learn more about how our advanced materials recruiters can help you.
Sources
