- New production line to increase polysilicon cleaning capacity by 50% by early 2025.
- Investment in plant and infrastructure exceeds €300 million.
- Project to create over 100 new jobs at Burghausen site.
- Funding application submitted to German Ministry for Economic Affairs.
Expansion Plans
Wacker Chemie AG plans to expand its semiconductor-grade polysilicon cleaning capacity at its Burghausen site by early 2025. The new production line will increase existing capacity by over 50%, with an investment exceeding €300 million. This expansion will create more than 100 new jobs at the site.
Research and Innovation
The project includes significant capital expenditures for research and innovation aimed at further increasing the purity of polysilicon through new, highly automated processes. This will enable semiconductors to meet smaller design rules and enhance chip performance. WACKER has applied for funding under the EU’s Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) program and expects up to €46 million in funding if approved by the German Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.
Strategic Goals
WACKER aims to strengthen Europe’s microelectronics supply chain and intensify its focus on high-quality polysilicon for semiconductor applications. The company plans to double its sales with semiconductor-sector customers by 2030, with an annual investment of around €100 million in the coming years.
Technical Process
Cleaning the surface of polysilicon chunks for semiconductor wafers is a complex process involving strong acids to etch and remove the uppermost layer. The polysilicon is then packaged under cleanroom conditions for shipment. The new facilities will use state-of-the-art technologies and high automation to achieve the required surface purity for future semiconductor wafers.
