Semiconductor Pellicle Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (ArF Pellicle, KrF Pellicle, EUV Pellicle and Others), By Application (IC Bumping, IC Foundry, IC Substrate, MEMS and LED Package) and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2031

Updated On: 22 April 2024

SEMICONDUCTOR PELLICLE MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW

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The global semiconductor pellicle market size was USD 1209 million in 2022 and will touch USD 1998.1 million by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period.

A semiconductor pellicle is a critical component in the manufacturing process of semiconductor devices, such as integrated circuits. Its primary function is to protect the delicate and sensitive semiconductor wafer from contaminants during various stages of fabrication. The pellicle is a thin, transparent membrane made from materials like nylon or other polymers, and it is stretched over the surface of the wafer.

One of the key roles of the semiconductor pellicle is to shield the wafer from particles, dust, and other foreign substances that could compromise the quality and functionality of the final semiconductor product. Even tiny particles can have a significant impact on the performance of semiconductor devices, potentially leading to defects and reduced yield. The pellicle acts as a barrier, preventing these contaminants from coming into direct contact with the wafer during crucial stages like lithography.

During the photolithography process, which is a fundamental step in semiconductor manufacturing, a light-sensitive material is deposited on the wafer, and a photomask is used to transfer the circuit patterns onto the wafer's surface. The semiconductor pellicle is placed over the photomask, ensuring that any particles or defects on the mask do not transfer to the wafer. This level of protection is vital for maintaining the precision and integrity of the intricate patterns etched onto the semiconductor.

COVID-19 IMPACT: Increased Demand for Electronics to Boost Market Growth Significantly

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the semiconductor pellicle market experiencing higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The semiconductor industry, like many others, faced disruptions in the supply chain due to lockdowns, restrictions, and logistic challenges brought about by the pandemic. This could have affected the production and availability of semiconductor pellicles.

On the other hand, there was an increased demand for electronics and semiconductor devices during the pandemic, driven by remote work, distance learning, and the need for various technologies to support the changing lifestyle. This demand could have influenced the production requirements for semiconductor pellicles. Changes in consumer behavior, such as increased online shopping and a surge in demand for electronic devices, could have influenced the semiconductor market. This, in turn, might have affected the need for semiconductor pellicles used in the manufacturing process. The market is anticipated to boost the semiconductor pellicle market growth following the pandemic.

LATEST TRENDS

"Advanced Lithography Technologies to Drive Market Growth"

With the semiconductor industry pushing the boundaries of Moore's Law, there is a continuous trend toward advanced lithography technologies. This includes the use of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, which could influence the requirements for semiconductor pellicles. There may be ongoing developments in the materials used for semiconductor pellicles. Innovations in materials can contribute to improved transparency, durability, and effectiveness in protecting semiconductor wafers.

The demand for semiconductor devices continued to rise due to various factors such as the growth of IoT (Internet of Things), 5G technology deployment, artificial intelligence (AI), and the expansion of electronic devices in various industries. These latest developments are anticipated to boost the semiconductor pellicle market share.

SEMICONDUCTOR PELLICLE MARKET SEGMENTATION

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• By Type                  

Based on type the global market can be categorized into ArF Pellicle, KrF Pellicle, EUV Pellicle and Others.

ArF Pellicle: ArF pellicles are designed for use with ArF (Argon Fluoride) excimer lasers, which have a wavelength of 193 nanometers.  ArF lithography is commonly used in semiconductor manufacturing for critical processes, especially in the production of advanced integrated circuits.  ArF pellicles are typically made from advanced materials that are transparent to the 193nm wavelength of ArF excimer lasers.

KrF Pellicle: KrF pellicles are designed for use with KrF (Krypton Fluoride) excimer lasers, which have a wavelength of 248 nanometers. KrF lithography is used in semiconductor manufacturing for specific processes, often for less advanced nodes compared to ArF lithography. KrF pellicles are manufactured from materials that are transparent to the 248nm wavelength of KrF excimer lasers.

EUV Pellicle: EUV pellicles are designed for use with EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet) lithography, which operates at a much shorter wavelength of around 13.5 nanometers. EUV lithography is a cutting-edge technology used for the production of advanced semiconductor devices with smaller feature sizes. EUV pellicles must be made from special materials that are transparent to the extremely short EUV wavelength.

• By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into IC Bumping, IC Foundry, IC Substrate, MEMS and LED Package.

IC Bumping: IC Bumping, or flip-chip packaging, is a process in semiconductor manufacturing where solder bumps are deposited directly onto the chip's bond pads. This technology is widely used in advanced packaging for integrated circuits (ICs) to improve performance, thermal characteristics, and overall reliability.

IC Foundry: IC Foundries are specialized facilities that provide semiconductor manufacturing services to companies without their own fabrication plants. These foundries manufacture integrated circuits based on designs provided by other companies, known as fabless semiconductor companies.

IC Substrate: IC Substrates, or interposer substrates, are a critical component in semiconductor packaging. They provide a connection between the semiconductor die and the package, facilitating the transmission of signals and power.

MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems): MEMS technology involves the integration of mechanical elements, sensors, actuators, and electronics on a single silicon chip. MEMS devices find applications in a wide range of industries, including automotive, consumer electronics, healthcare, and industrial applications.

LED Package: LED Packaging involves the encapsulation of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to protect them and enhance their performance. LED packages are used in a variety of lighting applications, including residential, commercial, automotive, and industrial lighting.

DRIVING FACTORS

"Increasing Demand for Semiconductor Devices to Boost the Market"

The growing demand for semiconductor devices across various industries, including consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare, and telecommunications, is a significant driver for the semiconductor pellicle market. As more electronic devices are produced, the need for high-quality semiconductor manufacturing and protection against contaminants becomes crucial. The trend towards more complex semiconductor designs, driven by applications like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and 5G technology, necessitates stringent protection measures during manufacturing. Pellicles provide a protective barrier against particles and other contaminants that could compromise the quality of semiconductor devices.

"Focus on Yield Improvement to Expand the Market"

Semiconductor manufacturers are constantly striving to improve yield rates to enhance overall efficiency and reduce production costs. Pellicles are essential in preventing contamination during lithography, contributing to higher yields by minimizing defects in the semiconductor manufacturing process. Increased investments in research and development within the semiconductor industry contribute to the development of advanced materials and technologies, including those related to semiconductor pellicles. Ongoing innovation helps enhance the performance, durability, and effectiveness of pellicles in protecting semiconductor wafers. These factors are anticipated to drive the semiconductor pellicle market share.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

"Technical Challenges in Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) Lithography to Potentially Impede Market Growth"

The adoption of EUV lithography, which relies on shorter wavelengths of light for more precise patterning, presents technical challenges. Pellicles for EUV lithography need to be transparent at these shorter wavelengths, and developing suitable materials that meet these requirements can be challenging. Semiconductor pellicles need to maintain their transparency and protective properties over an extended period. Concerns related to the durability and lifespan of pellicles can impact their adoption, especially as semiconductor manufacturing processes continue to evolve and become more demanding. The factors are anticipated to hinder the growth of the semiconductor pellicle market growth.

SEMICONDUCTOR PELLICLE MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

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"Asia Pacific is Dominating the Market with High Investments in Technology"

The market is primarily segregated into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East & Africa

Countries in the Asia Pacific region have made substantial investments in technology and infrastructure, fostering the growth of the semiconductor industry. These investments attract semiconductor manufacturers and related businesses to establish and expand their operations in the region. The Asia Pacific region, particularly countries like China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, has established itself as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing. Many major semiconductor fabrication facilities (fabs) are located in this region, contributing to a significant share of global semiconductor production. The rapid economic growth in countries like China and India has driven increased demand for electronic devices, leading to a higher demand for semiconductors. As a result, semiconductor manufacturing activities have flourished in the Asia Pacific region.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

"Key Players Focus on Partnerships to Gain a Competitive Advantage "

Prominent market players are making collaborative efforts by partnering with other companies to stay ahead in the competition. Many companies are also investing in new product launches to expand their product portfolio. Mergers and acquisitions are also among the key strategies used by players to expand their product portfolio.

List of Market Players Profiled

• MITSUI Chemical [Japan]
• FINE SEMITECH [South Korea]
• NEPCO (Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.) [Japan]
• AGC (Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.) [Japan]
• Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. [Japan]

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

February 2021: "NECPEX™ Pellicle" manufactured by NEPCO (Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.). NEPCO is a Japanese company that specializes in the development and production of various glass and electronic materials, including pellicles for semiconductor manufacturing. The NECPEX™ Pellicle is designed to protect semiconductor wafers during the photolithography process, ensuring the integrity and quality of the semiconductor devices being produced.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated timeframe. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.