The global fabrication of semiconductors powers modern electronics, artificial intelligence, communications, medical devices, and clean energy systems. However, manufacturing microchips and integrated circuits requires complex chemical processes involving highly toxic, flammable, and reactive compounds.
Because microchip production relies on vast volumes of hazardous reagents, establishing compliant chemical containment is essential. Utilizing engineered steel storage lockers protects cleanroom personnel, satisfies OSHA and EPA mandates, and safeguards expensive chemical inventories against thermal degradation.
Computer Chips Connect the World
It’s no secret that future wars will be fought in cyberspace. The United States takes computer chips so seriously the Biden administration recently enacted legislation to limit the sell or development of computer chips to China, which is quickly arising as our prime nemesis in the Second Cold War. The legislation will also earmark funds to further stimulate the production of computer chips in America, including their proverbial birthplace in Silicon Valley. Currently, there are only a handful of locations worldwide that manufacture semiconductors and an even smaller amount that possess the technological blueprints for processing them, but that could soon change. We expect a growing number of ancillary companies to begin production of valuable, but dangerous chemicals used for semiconductor manufacturing.
Common Chemicals Used in Chip Manufacturing
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- Xylenes
- Ammonia
- Copper
- Ethylene glycol
- Arsenic
- Nitrate compounds
- Hydrogen fluoride
- Cadmium
- Isopropyl alcohol
How to Protect Employees During Semiconductor Manufacturing
As you can tell from this exhaustive list, semiconductor facilities use several different types of liquids and solvents for making chips. These chemicals can be extremely toxic to humans, as they are known carcinogens. Even with the upmost care and due diligence in handling these dangerous chemicals, workers an unknowingly and inadvertently absorb these hazardous materials during manufacturing. Inhalation of harmful gasses and byproducts, such as carbon monoxide, are also cause for concern.
U.S. Hazmat Storage’s chemical storage lockers can handle a variety of differing classifications of dangerous chemicals used in the manufacturing of semiconductors and computer chips. Because computer chips rely on such an extensive list of dangerous incompatible materials, it may be necessary to install multiple lockers to remain federally compliant with the EPA and OSHA. Organizing different classifications of chip manufacturing chemicals could also lead to better organized facilities to streamline production, which is crucial during periods of upticks in expected quotas. If the pandemic taught car and electronic manufacturers anything, it’s that even the slightest interruptions in chip supply chains can halt manufacturing for weeks at a time. Segregated and compartmentalized storage also ensures chemicals will be put back in their proper place by employees once manufacturing is completed.
Chemicals used in the manufacturing of semiconductors are as valuable as they are toxic. These volatile chemicals constantly remain ultra sensitive to change. Even slight deviations in temperatures can damage vulnerable equipment and processes, such as thin films and etching. Our fire-rated chemical storage lockers come with optional climate control protection to protect sensitive chemicals. Air ventilation systems also prevents the potentially damaging accumulation of dust particles that can be harmful to films and chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chemical Storage for Semiconductors
Why is climate control necessary for storing chemicals used in semiconductors?
Many chemicals used in microchip fabrication (such as photoresists, etchants, and specialized solvents) undergo thermal decomposition or separation if exposed to heat or freezing temperatures, compromising purity and process consistency.
Can acids and solvents used in semiconductors be stored together?
No. Acids and organic solvents are chemically incompatible and must be stored in physically segregated compartments or separate fire-rated lockers to prevent violent exothermic reactions or toxic fumes.
How do US Hazmat Storage lockers comply with EPA and OSHA standards?
Our prefabricated buildings feature secondary spill sumps (EPA 40 CFR 264.175), explosion-proof electrical systems, forced mechanical ventilation, and up to 4-hour fire endurance ratings meeting NFPA 30 and OSHA requirements.
Protect Your Semiconductor Facility with Certified Hazmat Lockers
Ensure operational continuity, protect cleanroom personnel, and maintain full EPA and OSHA compliance. Request a free quote for semiconductor chemical storage or consult directly with our technical team:
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- Direct Phone Support: Call our chemical storage specialists today at 877-959-0747
- Online Consultation: Submit your chemical inventory requirements for a turn-key proposal
- Nationwide Shipping: Fast, certified site delivery available across North America.