Size, Shape, and Crystal Structure of Silica Particles Generated as By-products in the Semiconductor Workplace

Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the physicochemical properties of silica powder and airborne particles as by-products generated from fabrication processes to reduce unknown risk factors in the semiconductor manufacturing work environment. Materials and Methods: Sampling was conducted at 200 mm and 300 mm semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities. Thirty-two powder and airborne by-product samples, diffusion(10), chemical vapor deposition(10), chemical mechanical polishing(5), clean(5), etch process(2), were collected from inner chamber parts from process and 1st scrubber equipment during maintenance and process operation. The chemical composition, size, shape, and crystal structure of silica by-product particles were determined by using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy techniques equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy, and x-ray diffractometry. Results: All powder and airborne particle samples were composed of oxygen(O) and silicon(Si), which means silica particle. The by-product particles were nearly spherical $SiO_2$ and the particle size ranged 25 nm to $50{\mu}m$, and most of the particles were usually agglomerated within a particle size range from approximately 25 nm to 500 nm. In addition, the crystal structure of the silica powder particles was found to be an amorphous silica. Conclusions: The silica by-product particles generated from the semiconductor manufacturing processes are amorphous $SiO_2$, which is considered a less toxic form. These results should provide useful information for alternative strategies to improve the work environment and workers' health.

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