Silicon Wafer Reclaiming - The Process and Market Size

 A recent downturn in the semiconductor industry has caused chip makers and equipment developers to look for new ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Silicon Wafer Reclaiming is one method that has recently gained popularity as a cost-cutting strategy.

Some of the largest wafer manufacturers have been pursuing reclaim strategies, while others have been chasing niche marketers in the field. In this article, we'll look at the process of silicon wafer reclaiming 

and what the market size is.

Process of reclaiming silicon wafers

The term "process of Silicon Wafer Reclaiming" refers to reprocessing a prime silicon or polysilicon wafer. It involves multiple steps, including sorting, polishing, lapping, grinding, cleaning, and inspection.

Once reclaimed, silicon wafers are used to produce photoelectric cells, integrated circuits, and optical devices. Reclaiming silicon wafers is an industry-wide initiative to reduce the amount of wasted material in the supply chain.

Reclaiming silicon wafers requires a series of steps, which can be performed in-house or outsourced. During each phase, unwanted materials are removed, and the surface is restored to Grade-A quality.

Typically, tens of micrometers of silicon layer are removed during the polishing step, resulting in thin test wafers. However, this material is worth the price. These processes have been known to reduce costs by up to 90%.

In addition to saving money on new semiconductors, reclaiming silicon wafers will also help semiconductor manufacturing facilities increase yield. This process will help them optimize production processes and monitor their equipment.

Reclaimed wafers can make semiconductors last longer and reduce costs by reducing waste. This will help customers save money. If you are wondering whether or not you should reclaim silicon wafers, there are some basic things you should know before getting started.

Cost of reclaiming silicon wafers

The cost of reclaiming silicon wafers can run as high per new test wafer, but it can be cut by nearly half using commercially engineered solutions. One such solution is Regence, which has the added benefit of significantly improving yields and reducing silicon loss by as much as 75%.

Its improved yields allow semiconductor manufacturers to get four times the life out of test wafers. The technology also reduces overall costs, giving semiconductor manufacturers a competitive edge.

Reclaiming silicon wafers has proven to be a cost-effective solution for semiconductor manufacturers, as they can save on production costs while still meeting prime specifications. In addition to reducing costs, reclaimed silicon wafers also meet SEMI requirements for prime test wafers.

Additionally, Silicon Specialist LLC can use them in various process applications. Reclaiming silicon wafers entails several steps, including visual inspection for fatal flaws and thickness measurements.

The global market for silicon reclaims wafers is expected to reach US$840.4 million by 2026, at a 7.6% CAGR. This growth is expected to continue as long as demand for semiconductor chips remains strong. In 2013, reclaim volumes increased by 18 percent, whereas bulk silicon shipments were virtually flat. Further, many customers reduced their virgin test wafers to offset the increased reclaiming, which means fewer lines.

The market size of silicon wafer reclaiming market

The silicon wafer reclaiming market is expected to increase rapidly in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Rising solar energy demand and a high concentration of key players will drive this region's growth.

Increasing demand for solar panels is also a driving force for the growth of this market. The growing solar energy industry will also benefit the industry. However, there are several challenges that manufacturers in this region must face.

The global silicon wafer reclaiming market was valued at USD 420 million in 2015 and is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to significant technological developments, such as the increased efficiency of reclaimed products and cost-cutting measures in the semiconductor industry. Here are some of the challenges faced by this market:

North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are the leading regions in the silicon wafer reclaiming industry, with a significant market share. Rapid growing electronic industry and a rise in disposable income are driving the market in these regions.

Growth in North America is also expected to continue in the next several years, thanks to the widespread use of solar energy in residential and commercial applications.