The development of microprocessor production technologies includes innovative techniques and methods for the production of integrated circuits. It includes both the optimisation of existing photolithography processes and the introduction of new materials and technologies, such as transistors with 3D architectures, EUV processes, and modern chip assembly and packaging techniques.
Development of Microprocessor Production Technologies
Type of technology
Description of the technology
Basic elements
- Lithographic processes (UV and EUV photolithography), semiconductor materials (silicon, germanium, gallium arsenide), etching methods, metallisation processes, assembly techniques (3D stacking, chiplet), and quality control systems.
Industry usage
- Processors in computers and servers
- Computing units in mobile devices
- Microprocessors in IoT devices
- Integrated circuits in autonomous cars
- Processors for data analysis in information processing centres
Importance for the economy
It underpins the development of the technology sector, enabling the creation of advanced processors used in computers, mobile devices, autonomous cars, and IoT infrastructure. Innovation in this area has a direct impact on industrial productivity growth, the development of new markets, and the competitiveness of economies.
Related technologies
Mechanism of action
- It involves a series of complex technological steps, from selective etching of materials, through the deposition of semiconductor thin films, to ion implantation and metallisation. Each of these steps affects the microprocessor’s parameters, such as speed of operation, energy efficiency, and signal processing capability. Innovations include the use of 3D transistors and new assembly techniques that increase the packing of components on the chip.
Advantages
- Miniaturisation: Creating smaller components.
- Increased productivity: Reduction of energy losses.
- Flexibility: Creating flexible circuits.
- New technologies: Development of advanced displays and cells.
- Material savings: Lower consumption of raw materials.
Disadvantages
- High costs of research and implementation of new technologies
- Miniaturisation problems (physical barriers)
- Limited availability of materials (rare metals)
- High energy consumption in the production process
- Risk of chemical contamination.
Implementation of the technology
Required resources
- Manufacturing infrastructure (semiconductor factories)
- Semiconductor materials and chemicals
- Lithographic technology (UV, EUV)
- High-end testing equipment
- Qualified engineering personnel
Required competences
- Advanced knowledge of lithographic techniques
- Materials engineering
- Knowledge of integrated circuit design methods
- Production process management
- Quality control and risk management
Environmental aspects
- Energy consumption: High energy demand in lithographic processes and in the synthesis of semiconductor materials.
- Raw material consumption: Requirements for purity and quality of materials such as silicon, germanium, and rare metals, leading to high demand for raw materials.
- Emissions of pollutants: Emissions of chemicals, including acids and toxic gases, during metallisation and etching processes.
- Waste generated: Difficulties in managing chemical waste from the production process, which requires specialised disposal.
- Recycling: Limited recyclability of semiconductor materials from integrated circuits at the end of their life cycle.
Legal conditions
- Safety standards: REACH – regulations for chemicals used in the manufacture of microprocessors to reduce their harm.
- Environmental standards: Regulations for the emission of toxic substances into the atmosphere in chemical processes during semiconductor production.
- Intellectual property: Patents on new manufacturing methods and technological solutions for microprocessors.
- Occupational safety: Standards for the protection of workers from harmful substances used in the production process (acids, gases).
- Legislation governing the implementation of solutions: Regulations for the marketing of new semiconductor materials and their application in electronics.