Fraunhofer IPMS and Infineon Collaborate to Advance Smart Power Technologies

German research institute Fraunhofer IPMS and semiconductor manufacturer Infineon Technologies AG (Infineon) have achieved a significant milestone in the development of smart power technologies. Through a year-long joint project, Fraunhofer IPMS provided crucial support for Infineon's Dresden site, enabling faster production ramp-up on 300mm wafers.

The collaboration focused on optimizing process modules within the complex chip manufacturing process for smart power technologies on larger 300mm wafers. This shift from the traditional 200mm wafers allows for significant production increase and cost reduction.

Over 2, 000 wafers were processed collaboratively, with continuous exchange between the two facilities to ensure optimal resource utilization and seamless integration into Infineon's production lines.

"The results are highly promising and mark a major step forward for Infineon Dresden's smart power production, " remarked Infineon's project manager, Andreas Thamm. "This close collaboration with Fraunhofer IPMS, particularly their process module expertise, accelerated the transfer to 300mm equipment, a critical step in expanding our manufacturing capabilities. "

The project exemplifies the successful collaboration and technological strength of Fraunhofer IPMS. "We have a long history of working together with Infineon, " said Dr. Malte Czernohorsky, IPMS project manager. "Our teams efficiently achieved results, and there was great openness to our ideas from Infineon colleagues. " These positive experiences pave the way for future joint projects.

This milestone aligns with Infineon's ongoing efforts to solidify its position as a leader in high-performance circuits, particularly at its Dresden facility. The company's new Smart Power Fab represents one of its largest single investments, aiming to accelerate semiconductor production capacity expansion and bolster Europe's chip manufacturing capabilities. This initiative directly addresses the growing global demand for semiconductors in renewable energy, data centers, and electric vehicles.

Infineon's project is financially supported by the European Union, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, and the Free State of Saxony. This funding falls under the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) program, which fosters the development and market readiness of innovative microelectronics and communication technologies. The program's goals include strengthening the European value chain, technological sovereignty, and climate protection through energy-efficient technologies and processes.