A new slate of federal announcements highlights continued progress in bolstering the U.S. microelectronics industrial base. The Department of Commerce, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are continuing to drive critical advancements in semiconductor research, manufacturing, and workforce development. These investments underscore the importance of building a resilient domestic supply chain and fostering innovation in microelectronics.
Key Announcements:
- Arizona State University Research Center (Department of Commerce): The Department of Commerce announced funding for a semiconductor research center at Arizona State University that will serve as the third CHIPS for America Flagship R&D Center. This facility will focus on advancing semiconductor materials and processes, providing a hub for academic and industry collaboration to tackle some of the industry’s most pressing challenges.
- CHIPS Act Incentives for Hemlock Semiconductor (Department of Commerce): Hemlock Semiconductor received funding to expand its production of polysilicon, a critical material for semiconductor manufacturing. This investment supports a reliable domestic supply of high-purity materials essential for chip production.
- EUV Lithography Research Leadership (LLNL): Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory was selected to lead next-generation research on extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. This cutting-edge technology is pivotal for producing advanced semiconductors and maintaining U.S. leadership in chip manufacturing.
- Semiconductor Research Corporation Awards (NIST): The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) announced funding for the Semiconductor Research Corporation to support foundational research in microelectronics. This initiative emphasizes collaboration between government, academia, and industry to address critical gaps in semiconductor technology.
Building the Microelectronics Industrial Base
These announcements reflect a comprehensive approach to strengthening the U.S. microelectronics ecosystem. Investments in materials production, cutting-edge research, and academic-industry collaboration are vital for ensuring a robust supply chain and maintaining technological leadership. As the U.S. continues to prioritize the semiconductor industry, these initiatives serve as key steps toward securing a self-reliant and innovative microelectronics industrial base.
Read More:
- Public Spend Forum’s Market Report on Microelectronics
- Strengthening Semiconductor Leadership: CHIPS Act Awards to Samsung, TI, and Amkor
- Strengthening The Microelectronics IB: Dept. of Commerce Announces CHIPS Act R&D Flagship Facilities in New York and California
