For nearly 20 years, Materion’s has provided industry-leading precision parts cleaning (PPC) service for physical vapor deposition tools used in the semiconductor manufacturing process.
While this service yields considerable value for customers – with unmatched results in quality, turnaround time, metal reclaims, and the ability to process a range of deposition and substrate material combinations – it also presents an inherent sustainability challenge.
Materion’s PPC service involves various unique solution chemistries. Resulting wastewater is subject to increasingly stringent regulatory controls, most notably chemical oxygen demand (COD) limits implemented by some states. COD is particularly difficult to mitigate, as it often relies on complex processes such as microbial treatments typically conducted only in specialized facilities like municipal wastewater treatment plants.
As part of its commitment to customers, the environment, and local communities, Materion deployed its Technology & Innovation (T&I) team to explore novel approaches to reducing COD waste without the need for exotic, complex treatments. The team found success with one particular process in which a reagent scavenges high-COD chemicals and converts them into nonhazardous forms.
Leveraging this knowledge, the T&I group collaborated with Materion’s Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) and Operations teams to diligently develop and establish a comprehensive process for COD removal and other necessary treatments. Our wastewater now passes required discharge inspections.
The effort demonstrates Materion’s dedication to sustainable business practices through continuous innovation, technical creativity, and operational excellence.
For more information, please contact Materion’s Matthew Waz (+1.716.531.3167, matthew.waz@materion.com).
