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A pan-European consortium dedicated to developing sustainable processes and technologies for the semiconductor-manufacturing supply chain announces the launch of the GENESIS project. This integrated, large-scale initiative aims to enable Europe’s chip industry to meet its sustainability goals – from material development to final waste treatment. Fraunhofer IPMS takes a managing role for one of the central work packages in order to minimize chemical waste and reduce emissions.
Coordinated by CEA-Leti, the three-year project brings together 58 partners spanning the entire European semiconductor value chain, from large industrials and SMEs to research institutes, universities, and industry associations. GENESIS will drive innovative solutions in emission control, eco-friendly materials such as alternatives to PFAS-based ones, waste minimization, and raw material reuse, directly aligned with the European Green Deal and European Chips Act.
“GENESIS is designed to address the complex challenges of building a truly sustainable semiconductor ecosystem,” says Laurent Pain, Sustainable Electronics Program director at CEA-Leti. “Its structure reflects both the urgency and the opportunity of Europe’s green transition, powered by the complementary expertise and close collaboration of its partners.”
Fraunhofer IPMS to minimize chemical waste and reduce emissions in the GENESIS project
Fraunhofer IPMS takes a managing role for one of the central work packages in order to minimize chemical waste and reduce emissions. In addition, the research institute is investigating the substitution of harmful materials and substances used in semiconductor production. The focus here lies on alternatives for PFAS (perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) and climate-damaging gases in the BOSCH process. The respective project section will examine certain improved recycling techniques, analyze abatement efficiency and even develop new systems.
“The mindful use of resources will be central to our efforts in the GENESIS project,” says Dr. Erik Schumann, scientific project leader at Fraunhofer IPMS. “We are concentrating on replacing and reducing the emission of climate-damaging gases such as SF6 or NF3. These gases are 10,000 times more harmful than CO2, but are needed in the semiconductor industry. We are also working to reduce the waste produced during chemical mechanical polishing," he adds.
