GIA: Cost effects to boost silicon reclaim wafer market
A new report indicates that growing cost pressures and developments in wafer reclamation processes are key driving forces in changing the future of the semiconductor industry
According to Global Industry Analysts, Inc.'s "Silicon Reclaim Wafers" report, silicon reclaim wafers are witnessing strong growth against a backdrop of increasing prices of virgin silicon wafers.
Reclaim grade silicon wafers are etched or polished for use in manufacturing for the second time,
Growing use of silicon reclaim wafers as test wafers for metrology, testing, monitoring and controlling of semiconductor fabrication lines and processes, is emerging as a key driver fuelling sales in the market.
What's more, the relatively robust electronics industry and the ensuing steady demand for semiconductors are poised to benefit growth in the market in the coming years.
Growing cost pressures in the semiconductor industry are providing recycled silicon wafers an opportunity to create value in the supply chain.
Rising raw material and labour costs, escalating energy prices, and increasing price sensitivity of end-user industries, are exerting significant pressure on corporate profitability.
With chip manufacturers shifting their focus towards increasing efficiency, enhancing productivity, and reducing costs, silicon reclaim wafers are gaining widespread adoption.
Japan and South Korea remain large markets for reclaim grade silicon wafers, given the large installed base of fabrication plants in these countries.
Technology developments are also expected spur growth by increasing reclamation yields, reducing reclaim cycle time, improving the quality of reclaimed wafers, and by reducing erosion in substrate thickness while simultaneously increasing the number of times the wafer can be recycled.
The study estimates silicon reclaim wafers to be a multi-million dollar market worldwide, while more precise market-size and growth projections for a 14-year period will be made available during the 2nd stage of report preparation, and data analysis.