Ruhr University Bochum: Progress in microelectronics through international cooperation!

Ruhr University Bochum: Progress in microelectronics through international cooperation!

On March 9, 2025, it will become clear that microelectronics is crucial to global progress. It plays an indispensable role in almost all areas of life and in the economy. The crises of recent years have shown the need for new alliances to secure this key technology. The Ruhr University Bochum has positioned itself as a pioneer and is part of an international network that includes partners from Japan, Europe and the USA. The goal is to develop highly advanced semiconductor technologies with atomic control.

At a recent meeting at the 1st German Japanese Plasma Processing Workshop for Advanced Microelectronics in Bochum on February 13th and 14th, 2025, a cooperation to implement the European Chips Act and the Japan Chips Act was initiated. A 17-member delegation from Japan visited the university, which serves as a leading research institution. Prof. Dr. Günther Meschke emphasizes the considerable added value of the exchange with international plasma laboratories, which is important for microelectronics production.

New technologies for the semiconductor industry

Two-dimensional materials, which consist of only one or a few atomic layers, are becoming increasingly important in chip production. Plasmas are necessary to produce these materials in a controlled manner and make them usable. The Ruhr University Bochum is researching fundamental aspects of plasma use in ForLab Bochum, which is part of the network of 19 German research laboratories for microelectronics. The declared goal is to quickly transfer findings from basic research to industry.

In Bochum, we are actively working on plasma technologies for microelectronic components. Direct collaboration between plasma science and microelectronic device development, although rare, could lead to significant innovations in semiconductor manufacturing. The Japanese delegation's trip was supported by the Japan Science and Technology Agency's "Aspire" program, which promotes international exchange and builds a cooperation network.

Strengthening the European semiconductor industry

The EU Commission is planning the “Chips Act” initiative with the aim of strengthening the semiconductor industry in Europe. The EU's market share in global chip production is expected to increase from around 9% to 20% by 2030. With the global chip market forecast to double by 2030, the need for new technologies in areas such as energy-efficient electronics, high-performance computing, 6G, artificial intelligence, neuromorphic and quantum computing is evident.

The main elements of the Chips Act include measures to intensify research and ensure chip availability through new production facilities. There is also an emphasis on monitoring global supply chains. This initiative represents a significant step towards reducing reliance on external supply chains, alongside similar strategies such as Made in China 2025 and the CHIPS for America Act.

The Microelectronics Research Factory Germany (FMD) plays a crucial role in this context. She acts as a central contact for micro- and nanoelectronics in Germany and Europe, especially for small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) and start-ups. The aim of the FMD is to strengthen competitiveness and technological sovereignty in microelectronics.

Overall, the close cooperation between institutions such as the Fraunhofer Society, CEA-Leti and imec promotes technology transfer between science and industry. These collective efforts are essential to secure Europe's position in the global microelectronics market and to exploit innovation potential.