Canatu, a deep technology company creating advanced carbon nanotubes (CNTs), related products, and manufacturing equipment for the semiconductor, automotive, and medical diagnostics industries, announces a significant milestone with the delivery of its first S-100 reactor for a major global semiconductor customer. The Canatu S-100 reactor, customised to produce high-precision CNT membranes, is currently being installed at the customer’s site, with production set to begin shortly after installation.
Scope of delivery
- CNT reactor delivery: Canatu has delivered the S-100 reactor and peripherals for manufacturing advanced CNT membranes for a semiconductor application.
- Technology licensing: The company licenses its patented technology for use with the S-100 reactor, allowing the customer to produce CNT membranes under a limited license.
- Consumables: Canatu supplies key consumables on an ongoing basis, ensuring an optimized, high-quality process for the customer while generating recurring revenue.
“Our new limited licensing business model marks a significant milestone for Canatu. We are excited about the potential of CNT membrane pellicles to enter commercial use in the future alongside CNT inspection membranes, driving the next step in performance. This is a result of the seamless collaboration with diverse customers and key industry stakeholders, who have been integral in getting advanced CNT material and products into semiconductor manufacturing,” stated Juha Kokkonen, CEO, Canatu Plc.
The demand for advanced chips is rising due to advancements in AI and computing. EUV semiconductors are gaining market share, with sub-7 nanometre chips growing the fastest. Canatu is well-positioned to meet the demands of this rapidly evolving market, as its advanced CNT membranes provide a step change in performance compared to traditional materials. CNT membranes enhance EUV processes, helping chip manufacturers improve performance, cost, and quality control.
Inspection membranes for the semiconductor industry
Since 2021, Canatu has been mass-producing inspection membranes for the semiconductor industry. These membranes can be utilised in both pre -and post-lithography processes to enhance quality control. These membranes also serve as CNT membrane pellicles, offering higher transmittance and performance compared to traditional materials. Additionally, CNT membranes can be used as optical filters, capable of filtering specific wavelengths while selectively blocking unwanted particles, electrons, and photons. With its patented CNT material, reactors, and Dry Deposition process, Canatu is well-positioned to meet the demands of the global semiconductor market.
The Finnish company operates through two business models: First, it uses its proprietary CNT reactors to develop and manufacture advanced CNT products in-house. Second, it sells its proprietary CNT reactors and licenses the related technology, allowing customers to produce advanced CNT products under a limited license. This model generates both fixed revenue from reactor sales and recurring revenue from royalties and non-discretionary consumables.