28.08.2024

Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP have developed an innovative, PFAS-free polymer membrane that represents an environmentally friendly alternative to the PFAS-containing membranes previously used in the semiconductor industry.

The new membrane is made of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and is characterized by a pore diameter of just seven nanometres, which enables high-precision filtration. The membrane can be seamlessly integrated into existing production systems thanks to customer-specific adaptations. This is a significant advance, especially in view of the planned EU-wide ban on PFAS chemicals.

Image: A roll of PFAS-free polymer membrane; Copyright: Fraunhofer IAP / Till Budde

Novel, PFAS-free high-tech membrane can filter out the smallest particle impurities, enabling the production of next-generation semiconductors.

Possible PFAS ban threatens current manufacturing processes

The semiconductor industry is facing a significant challenge as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a ban on PFAS chemicals, which are harmful to health and the environment. These chemicals have been essential in many semiconductor manufacturing processes, especially in membranes used for filtration.

The new PFAS-free membrane from the Fraunhofer IAP now offers a solution that not only protects the environment, but also meets the requirements of the industry. With its high chemical and mechanical stability, the membrane can be used even under extreme conditions and ensures reliable removal of particle contamination, which is crucial for the production of the next generation of chips.

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A particular advantage of the new membrane is its adaptability: the pore size and permeability can be specifically adapted to the requirements of different applications so that existing systems can continue to be used. The membrane is also manufactured using the environmentally friendly NIPS process, short for non-solvent-induced phase separation, which uses REACH-compliant solvents. This innovation has the potential to be widely used not only in semiconductor production, but also in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

COMPAMED-tradefair.com; Source: Fraunhofer IAP