NAGASE & SACHEM: Pioneering Semiconductor Recycling

January 23, 2024 Cleburne, TX – SACHEM is proud to announce its feature in a recent Japanese publication, underscoring our commitment to pioneering sustainable practices in the semiconductor industry. The article, titled “Commercialization of Collection and Recycling of Developer Used in Semiconductor Manufacturing,” spotlights the collaborative project initiated by the NAGASE Group’s Nagase & Co., Ltd., Nagase ChemteX and our esteemed team at SACHEM Inc. This initiative marks a significant advancement in recycling high-purity developer (tetramethylammonium hydroxide: TMAH) used in semiconductor manufacturing.

Our joint venture, SN Tech Corporation, is set to implement cutting-edge electrolysis and refinement technology at a new facility in Higashiosaka. This project is a pioneering effort in Japan for collecting TMAH waste solution, recycling it, and reusing it as TMAH, showcasing our commitment to environmental sustainability and innovative technology.

The article elaborates on the intricate processes involved in semiconductor chip manufacturing, highlighting the necessity of high-purity developer in creating circuits on silicon wafers. The reuse and recycling of TMAH, a complex and demanding process, is poised to alleviate environmental impacts and enhance the profitability of the semiconductor industry.

SN Tech has recycled developer for LCD panels since 2008. This new venture leverages their accumulated technology and expertise to establish a benchmark for TMAH reuse, aligning with our mission to foster sustainable, profitable, and environmentally conscious business models.

The initiative’s goal is to produce 10,000t of high-purity developer annually in Japan, setting a precedent for expanding this sustainable practice globally. This aligns with our collective vision of creating a sustainable world and addressing production challenges in the semiconductor industry.

At SACHEM, we are excited to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking project, contributing significantly to the industry’s sustainability and cost-efficiency. We look forward to continuing our work and shaping a sustainable future. For more information on this initiative, you can read the full article here in English or here in Japanese.