North Rhine-Westphalia is making a key contribution to the implementation of the European Chip Directive and Europe's technological sovereignty. The Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems (IMS) in Duisburg is significantly involved in the APECS pilot line , a key initiative for promoting modern semiconductor technologies. With funding of €25.6 million and a contribution of €2.2 million from its own resources, North Rhine-Westphalia underscores its role as a driver of innovation and resilience in global competition.
APECS pilot line: North Rhine-Westphalia at the heart of semiconductor development
The APECS pilot line (Advanced Packaging and Heterogeneous Integration for Electronic Components and Systems) is a key component of the EU Chip Act. This ambitious project, with total funding of €730 million over 4.5 years, aims to promote European semiconductor production and reduce technological dependence on non-European suppliers.
Fraunhofer IMS contributes its expertise to the development of innovative technologies and design environments. The goal is to provide easy access to cutting-edge technologies for large industrial companies as well as SMEs and start-ups.
North Rhine-Westphalia focuses on innovation: Fraunhofer IMS's focus
Within the framework of the APECS pilot project, Fraunhofer IMS in Duisburg is focusing on the following core areas:
- Development of P/ADKs (Process and Assembly Design Kits): These kits simplify the integration of modern semiconductor technologies and accelerate development processes.
- Design flows for advanced technologies: These include 2.5D and 3D integration as well as quasi-monolithic integration (QMI), which are essential for next-generation semiconductor production.
These developments are groundbreaking for the semiconductor industry and secure Europe a strong position in global supply chains.
Sources: NMWP; Fraunhofer IMS
