An important plant for the semiconductor industry has been shut down in Belgium
For the third year in a row, the semiconductor industry is facing various difficulties. In Belgium, due to increased environmental requirements, the 3M plant closed, which provided 80% of the world market demand for coolant for etching silicon wafers.
According to Business Korea, the 3M plant in Europe supplied major semiconductor components such as TSMC, Samsung Electronics, SK hynix and Intel.
Why is it so important
Coolant required for the processing of silicon wafers, from which crystals of semiconductor chips obtained. 3M closed indefinitely on March 8, jeopardizing the operation of its customers’ core businesses.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the coolant supply will be enough for a period of one to three months. During this time, the recipients of this type of product have to solve the problem caused by the closure of the Belgian plant, as local authorities concerned about the impact of chemical production on the environment and human health.
How this production affects the environment
Substances that are part of the coolant are insoluble in oil and water, do not break down intoxicated of high temperatures and can accumulate in the human body, causing hormonal disorders.
