Ultraviolet silicon engraving allows for chip discounts

A research team at the University of London claims they have succeeded in oxidizing silicon, saving energy in the most important part of the semiconductor industry.

Silicon semiconductor oxygen is the cornerstone of chip fabrication. The silicon oxide layer acts as an insulator and protects the semiconductor, retaining the charge and controlling the circuit. The natural oxidation of silicon in nature takes place very slowly, and microprocessor makers have to spend a lot of energy creating a laser to heat silicon up to 1,000 degrees C.

Instead of following the old method, electronic engineers sought to use poor ultraviolet light to break down the oxygen molecule on the surface of the material to promote oxidation.

"Our findings could make the entire electronics industry reconsider silicon processing, " said Professor Ian Boyd, who led the study. " Energy savings will reduce production costs of consumer electronics, of course there will be positive impacts on the environment ."

Thao