This strategic investment underscores Air Liquide's commitment to technological leadership, as it becomes the first company to deliver high-volume molybdenum solutions.
Air Liquide has announced the successful commissioning of the world's largest molybdenum manufacturing plant in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. This state-of-the-art facility is set to supply leading semiconductor customers with SubleemTM, a groundbreaking advanced materials offer that marks a significant leap forward in chip manufacturing technology.
The newly operational plant is a cornerstone of Air Liquide's innovative SubleemTM offer, which has been meticulously developed and rigorously qualified in close collaboration with major semiconductor chip manufacturers. SubleemTM offers a complete range of ultra-high purity solid molybdenum molecules, delivered through pioneering, proprietary distribution systems. These advanced systems ensure the precise and efficient delivery of the materials, crucial for the intricate processes involved in chip fabrication.
his integrated solution is designed to support the semiconductor industry's significant upcoming transition to molybdenum. Molybdenum is quickly becoming a strong alternative to tungsten, the material traditionally used in chip manufacturing.
Beyond this new high-volume manufacturing plant in South Korea, which is already supplying SubleemTM to two early adopters of molybdenum technology, Air Liquide has been expanding its global footprint to meet anticipated demand. The company has had a dedicated production unit in operation since 2023 in Japan. Looking ahead, Air Liquide plans to open another manufacturing plant in the United States by the end of 2025.
Armelle Levieux, member of Air Liquide’s Executive Committee, who notably oversees the Electronics activities, emphasized the company's dedication to its partners and the broader industry. "At Air Liquide, we are committed to accompany our customers in semiconductor manufacturing to tackle the challenges of this fast-growing industry," stated Levieux. She added, "Our strategic presence in key semiconductor hubs, combined with our unique innovation know-how, allows us to rapidly develop and bring to the market breakthrough technological solutions crucial for next-generation chips. This approach enables Air Liquide to maintain its leadership position in advanced materials for the semiconductor industry, contributing directly to the technological advancements that power our modern world."
This expansion solidifies Air Liquide's role as a pivotal enabler of future semiconductor advancements, ensuring a robust and reliable supply of critical materials essential for the continued evolution of digital technologies and the acceleration of AI innovations worldwide. The company's proactive investment and innovation in molybdenum technology are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of high-performance computing.
