Nanoparticle Monitoring in UPW

Liquid Particle Instrument

Ultra-pure water (UPW) plays a crucial role in semiconductor manufacturing, where it is used for cleaning wafers and equipment, as well as for etching and removing contaminants to ensure high-quality production. The presence of nanoparticles as small as 10 nm can affect yield and product integrity, making real-time detection essential.

Traditional optical-based technologies face challenges in detecting particles smaller than 20 nm due to refractive index limitations and interference from microbubbles, which can result in false or inconsistent readings. However, newer instrument technology, such as TSI’s Nano LPM™ System, addresses these issues by reliably detecting nanoparticles down to 10 nm, providing consistent, real-time insights to effectively monitor UPW quality.

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Nano LPM System

Provides true 10 nm nanoparticle detection in semiconductor ultrapure water (UPW).

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Critical Monitoring for Ultra-Pure Water

As semiconductor nodes advance, the purity of Ultra-Pure Water (UPW) becomes increasingly critical. UPW is the most widely used chemical in the fab, and even trace contamination can lead to catastrophic yield loss. The TSI® Nano LPM™ System offers a breakthrough in liquid monitoring technology, enabling facility managers to see what was previously invisible. By detecting particles down to 10 nm, this system provides an early warning of filtration issues or system contamination, helping to avoid the processing of wafers with compromised water.

Overcoming Optical Limitations

Traditional liquid particle counters rely on light scattering, which loses sensitivity as particle size decreases, especially when the particle's refractive index matches that of water. The Nano LPM™ System utilizes a different approach that operates independently of refractive index, allowing it to detect silica, metallic, and organic particles with equal efficiency. This capability helps eliminate the false negatives common with older technologies and provides a truer picture of water quality.

Real-Time Data for Proactive Control

Waiting for lab results or grab samples can delay necessary corrective actions. The Nano LPM™ System delivers real-time data, enabling immediate response to water quality excursions. This continuous stream of data supports detailed trending and analysis, helping engineers optimize filtration cycles and predict maintenance needs. By integrating this advanced monitoring capability into your UPW system, you can better manage process risks and support the stringent cleanliness requirements of modern semiconductor fabrication.


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