TU Delft's Leap in Microelectronics Innovation
Delft, Thursday, 15 May 2025.
TU Delft combines expertise across seven research groups to drive forward innovations in integrated photonics and semiconductor technologies, crucial for next-gen electronics advancements.
Pioneering Research Infrastructure
In a significant development announced on April 30, 2025, Dr.ir. Sten Vollebregt from TU Delft’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science has secured substantial funding from the Dutch Research Council (NWO) for the groundbreaking National Scalable Atomic Processing Line (SAP-NL) project. This initiative aims to establish a unique national facility for large-scale atomic fabrication, as part of NWO’s investment of over 21 million euros in innovative scientific infrastructure [1].
Revolutionary Atomic-Level Manufacturing
The SAP-NL project represents a crucial advancement in materials innovation, focusing specifically on 2D materials, thin-film wide-bandgap semiconductors, and their heterojunctions. Associate Professor Vollebregt explains that the facility will enable the construction of materials atom by atom, resulting in customized properties that either enhance existing applications or create entirely new possibilities not found in nature [1]. The facility’s development is particularly significant as it will operate under protected environments to prevent surface contamination, which typically degrades material properties [1].
Comprehensive Research Expertise
The Department of Microelectronics at TU Delft brings together substantial expertise, with approximately 30 faculty members and over 180 scientific staff [2]. Their research portfolio spans crucial areas including diagnostic technology, energy-efficient electronics, and advanced signal processing. The department’s work extends from fundamental technology layers through to complete system integration, addressing contemporary societal challenges [2].
Future Impact and Applications
The significance of this microelectronics advancement is particularly relevant for addressing critical societal challenges, including energy transition and digital transformation. The facility’s capabilities will contribute to the development of more energy-efficient chips, enhanced batteries, improved solar panels, and advanced communication networks [1]. Upon completion, the infrastructure will be integrated into NanoLabNL, further expanding its potential impact on national research capabilities [1].