Mini-Spin Coater
Mini-Spin Coater A photovoltaic research institute required a compact spin coater to integrate with a robotic work cell. Cee® created a custom coater with a 120mm Teflon™ bowl, a mechanized lid, and auto-dispense functionality. This solution met the institute’s high-speed control needs, chemical compatibility, and space constraints. In production, the coater exceeded expectations, delivering safety […]
Automated Dispense Systems
This article explores automated dispense options for spin coating applications in the semiconductor industry including cartridge dispense, pressure can dispense, and disposable syringe dispense. The article also touches on dispense controls, edge bead removal, and backside rinse, while highlighting the benefits of the Cee® line-up of Apogee® Spin Coaters. Automated Dispense Systems Spin coating is […]
Nitrogen Purge
Nitrogen purge is widely employed in the manufacturing of semiconductors. It is utilized to establish a low-oxygen setting for processing substrates. This method helps remove impurities, minimize oxidation, maintain uniform film deposition, and can be beneficial for meeting safety standards. Nitrogen Purge Nitrogen purge is a common technique used in various industries, including semiconductor manufacturing, […]
Spin Chucks for Square Substrates
Spin-coating is a process used to evenly distribute material on a substrate by spinning it at a high speed. Round substrates are commonly used because their smooth edges create minimal turbulence, resulting in uniform evaporation rates. However, square and rectangular substrates create unique challenges due to increased air turbulence and can result in uneven coating […]
Selecting Maximum Spin Speed and Acceleration
In spin coating, the speed and acceleration of a spinning substrate affect the thickness and quality of a film. The substrate’s rotational speed affects the centrifugal force and air turbulence, while its acceleration affects the film’s properties. The initial spin cycle is critical because the resin dries quickly, and up to 50% of base solvents […]
Programmable Exhaust for Optimal Thick-Film Spin Coating
For ultra-high uniformity on thick films in spin-coating processes, precise control of solvent vapors is crucial. This is achieved through a closed bowl environment and a programmable exhaust module. The process involves a prewet dispense step, dynamic dispense step, and drying step to create a highly uniform coating. Spin speed, acceleration, and drying rate are […]
Spin Coat Theory
Spin coating is a process used to apply thin films onto a substrate, typically involving depositing a small puddle of a fluid material on the center of the substrate and spinning it at high speed. The final thickness of the film depends on the properties of the fluid and the spin process parameters. The speed […]
Edge Bead Removal and Backside Rinse Demystified
Edge bead removal is used to eliminate build up while backside rinse prevents contamination. Using an automated system for both processes results in precise, efficient, and consistent results with minimal operator intervention. Introduction Edge bead removal (EBR) and back-side rinse (BSR) are critical processes in the fabrication of high-quality micro and nanoscale devices such as […]