The line between our digital and physical realities continues to gradually fade. We are surrounded by innovations like fitness trackers and electric vehicles which make up what we often hear referred to as the “internet of things (IOT)”, objects containing sensors and software that share and collect data. These connected devices simplify, automate and enhance our daily experiences. Core to the IOT revolution are semiconductors enabling the vast array of devices and systems that drive our interconnected world.
Semiconductors are compact, powerful electronic components that include elements like chips and sensors, that process data, execute commands, communicate with other devices, connect to the internet and store memory. Whether optimizing agricultural practices with autonomous irrigation sensors or powering pacemakers that regulate heartbeats, semiconductors enable transformative technologies. As we become increasingly more connected, advanced semiconductors are essential for enhancing the efficiency and impact of the devices that link us and shape our daily lives.
Overcoming challenges with next-generation innovations
As the electric vehicle (EV) market accelerates, it is pushing the boundaries of semiconductor technology to address pressing challenges like range anxiety, insufficient charging infrastructure and slow charging speeds. Innovations in this sector are focused on creating more efficient semiconductors that improve battery life, reduce the weight of power devices and tackle critical issues affecting EV performance and infrastructure.
The shift to silicon carbide for long-lasting semiconductor solutions
Recently the semiconductor industry has transitioned from using silicon-based (SI) slurries to silicon carbide (SIC)-based slurries for semiconductor chemical mechanical planarization (CMP). SIC slurries offer significant advantages over traditional slurries due to their electrical properties, including:
- Higher thermal conductivity: SIC materials provide better heat management during the polishing process, ensuring stable conditions. This helps prevent wafer damage, improves polishing accuracy and boosts reliability.
- Improved efficiency in power devices: Using SIC slurries in CMP allows systems to handle higher voltages and temperatures, improving efficiency and performance.
- Greater mechanical hardness: SIC is mechanically harder than silicon, which enhances its longevity and speed in smoothing wafer surfaces because it can withstand great force without deforming. This combination makes it more durable, scratch resistant and better at delivering uniform results.
- Lower energy loss and better performance: Silicon semiconductors waste energy as heat but SIC semiconductors can run at higher frequencies and temperatures, reducing energy loss and enhancing improved performance.
- Thinner wafer production: SIC enables smaller and more compact semiconductor devices that are both lightweight and durable.
- Compatibility with high-voltage applications: EVs and renewable energy systems require materials that can handle high-power demands and SIC is well suited for these challenging applications.
The shift to silicon carbide for long-lasting semiconductor solutions
With over 60 years of expertise in surface finishing technology, Vibrantz’s research, development and analytical resources empower us to drive innovation in the industry. Our new acidic permanganate SIC slurry offers high removal rates (from 4.5-7 micrometers per hour) and very low defectivity. This single-pass slurry yields surface finishes of 0.7 angstroms. With a total usable area percentage of 99%, it does not compromise surface quality for speed and is an ideal choice for semiconductor CMP.
For insights and details about our next-generation SIC slurry or any of our advanced formulations, reach out to our expert team. Our scientists and commercial specialists will also be attending upcoming industry events ICSCRM and ICPT where you can connect with us in person.
Prior to Vibrantz, Tillman joined Ferro as an intermediate scientist in 2021. Since transitioning into her role as a research and development scientist for Vibrantz’s Advanced Materials unit, Tillman leads research in chemical mechanical planarization areas to formulate Vibrantz’s silicon carbide slurry chemistries. Tillman received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Lewis University and a doctorate in philosophy and chemistry from Clarkson University.
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Glass, Packaging
First impressions are crucial. Our brains are hardwired to quickly asses and make judgements based on appearances, influencing our permanent perceptions of a product’s quality, desirability and value. Consumer research reveals that 70% of shoppers make purchasing decisions based primarily on packaging. This means that design elements, such as the color of a glass beverage bottle, can play a decisive role in a product’s success or failure in the market.
The psychological power of color in packaging
Color is a silent yet powerful communicator. Research indicates that 75% of quick judgements about consumer products are influenced by color. Color evokes memories and emotions, shaping our perceptions and influencing purchasing decisions. For example, a black wine bottle signals luxury and sophistication, while a cobalt blue bottle conveys calm sophistication. On crowded shelves, the color of the glass can help tell a brand’s story and set it apart from the competition.
Forehearth color concentrates add essential value
In traditional color production processes, color is added in the furnace, limiting a batch to a single color. While effective for large batches, this process restricts the ability to incorporate more colors in smaller quantities and can result in excess inventory of a single-color product.
Forehearth colorant technology is incorporated after firing in the furnace and provides immense benefits to glass manufacturing, including:
- Reduced energy consumption: Firing uses lower temperatures than the furnace, saving energy by requiring less gas and time. Furnace color transitions can take up to 96 hours, while the forehearth process completes in as low as 10 hours
- Faster production: Shorter firing times in the forehearth speed up production by over 90%. Transitioning from clear (flint) to color can take two to four hours, that same process can take up to 24 hours in the furnace
- Wide range of color possibilities: Batch production enables more color options and specialty shades
- Less waste: Minimizes excess inventory by reducing the need for large quantities of stock
- Lower shipping costs: Forehearth color implementation eliminates the need for an on-site furnace, allowing production closer to customers
- Streamlined process: Eliminates the need to change the furnace for every new color and introduces color without stopping the main production line
- Increased flexibility: Allows small-batch production of several colors simultaneously
- Financial gains: Expands customer base by supporting batches of all sizes
Forehearth firing for function and fashion
Glass manufacturers use forehearth color concentrates to change functional attributes of their products. Forehearth colors and frits can promote the longevity and durability of a product by preserving its usability, freshness, taste and smell. This factor helps fine wine and fortified beer age over time without spoiling.
Take the green and amber colors used in wine bottles, for example. These darker shades are frequently used to provide high ultraviolet (UV) protection for the internal liquid contents by shielding it from sun exposure and fluorescent light. In contrast, clear glass will expose liquid contents to most UV rays. Too much UV exposure can result in photochemical reactions that can cause unpleasant aromas, rotting flavors, color fading and reduced shelf life.
The enduring strength of forehearth color
Forehearth color concentrates and frits are fundamental in coloring glass products across industry segments, including tableware, beverage container, specialty container (perfume), architectural and artware. Forehearth color is permanently embedded into the glass during manufacturing, making it an inherent part of the piece and contributing to its lasting qualities such as:
- Durability: Since it is not a surface coating, it won’t chip or peel to reveal an undesired underlying color
- Consistency: The color and piece will maintain its appearance and integrity over time despite varying environmental conditions
- Longevity: Forehearth color does not degrade and fade, offering visual appeal throughout a product’s lifespan and beyond
- Recyclability: Glass is 100% recyclable and can be reused in countless applications without losing its quality
Create an unforgettable presence with our glass solutions
Making a bold entrance in the marketplace helps invite customers to try your product. Effective design and functionality—powered by forehearth color concentrates—is essential to propel your business forward and create an impression that complements the excellence within each bottle.
To learn more about our comprehensive glass coloring products, meet us in Booth B55, Hall 12 at Glasstec on October 22 or contact us to learn more what forehearth colorant technology can do for you.
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