SINGAPORE, 6 September 2024 – The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and Applied Materials today announced a new joint lab to collaborate on developing innovative, cost-effective solutions for semiconductor equipment and creating capabilities for the local chip ecosystem. Minister of State, Trade and Industry, Mr Alvin Tan, witnessed the signing ceremony.

The Applied Materials – A*STAR Joint Lab for Applied Process Equipment Accelerator (APEX) will focus on:

• Developing semiconductor manufacturing processes that minimise material waste and maximise resource efficiency;
• Developing components and methods to enhance the quality and functionality of semiconductor equipment targeted for ICAPS markets (IoT, Communications, Automotive, Power and Sensors); and
• Creating computer models to test, simulate and optimise new processes and designs.

The joint lab will also enable small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore to support development of these solutions.

A*STAR’s research institutes – Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre (ARTC), Institute of High Performance Computing (IHPC), Institute of Microelectronics (IME), and Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE)  – will contribute their research and expertise in advanced manufacturing, materials, simulation and sensor technologies, to develop new approaches in designing and building innovative manufacturing processes and components for semiconductor equipment.

“A*STAR is excited to collaborate with Applied Materials on this joint lab, supporting their efforts to continuously innovate and advance semiconductor equipment capabilities. The joint lab will also benefit our local SMEs which have a vital role to play in supporting the growth and development of Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem. Our goal is to equip them with the expertise and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality and reliable semiconductor components, enabling them to grow in capabilities and competitiveness, and move up the global value chain,” said Prof Lim Keng Hui, Assistant Chief Executive, Science and Engineering Research Council, A*STAR.

“Applied Materials looks forward to building upon our successful and longstanding engagement with A*STAR by launching this joint lab designed to innovate on materials, manufacturing and components for semiconductor equipment. This collaboration supports Applied’s semiconductor product development activities in Singapore and aligns with Applied’s Singapore 2030 plan to strengthen our global manufacturing and R&D capabilities, broaden technology ecosystem partnerships in Singapore and promote local workforce development,” said Dr Arvind Sundarrajan, Semiconductor Products Group Managing Director, Applied Materials.

A*STAR and Applied Materials have collaborated in the field of semiconductors for more than 10 years. This includes the establishment of a Center of Excellence in Advanced Packaging in Singapore to accelerate materials, equipment and process technology solutions for advanced 3D chip integration technologies.