Evonik Industries AG launched the production of ultra-high purity colloidal silica at its new facility in Weston, Michigan, targeting the semiconductor industry. This plant is the first of its kind in North America and is a critical addition to Evonik’s portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and supply security for semiconductor customers.
As reported by Chemengonline, Lauren Kjeldsen, Head of Evonik’s Smart Materials Division, emphasized the strategic importance of this facility, which aligns with the growing global demand for sophisticated microchips and digital products.
Colloidal silica is essential for chemical mechanical planarization (CMP), a precise polishing process crucial in microchip production. Evonik’s colloidal silica, marketed under the IDISIL® brand, is noted for its ultra-high purity and consistent particle size distribution.
Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, lauded Evonik’s decision to invest in Michigan, highlighting the state’s burgeoning semiconductor ecosystem.
Evonik has inaugurated the global semiconductor center of excellence in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The center is dedicated to developing critical chemicals for microchip production, offering customer-driven projects and technical support for IDISIL users.
Christian Edlinger, Head of the Americas region in Evonik’s Silanes business line, stressed the center’s role in anticipating growth in the semiconductor chemicals market, leveraging extensive expertise to develop innovative solutions for the industry. The Allentown hub includes advanced testing labs and a pilot plant, underscoring Evonik’s commitment to leading-edge technological development.
