Cargill partners with Arizona State University to explore new materials for semiconductor innovation

Cargill partners with Arizona State University to explore new materials for semiconductor innovation

Cargill Priamine dimer diamine, made from bio-based ingredients, has shown strong potential in the semiconductor industry.

Cargill Bioindustrial and Arizona State University (ASU) are launching a new, year-long research partnership focused on advanced materials used in semiconductor technology.

The research is focused on Cargill Priamine dimer diamine, which is made from bio-based ingredients.

With support from ASU’s Biodesign Institute, scientists will study how and why this material performs so well – and how it might be used to improve the speed, efficiency, and reliability of electronic devices.

Originally developed for other applications, Priamine, dimer diamine has shown strong potential in the semiconductor industry. Polyimide made using Priamine exhibits very low dielectric constant, enhancing the performance of semiconductor devices.

“ASU is a premier research institution and a trusted partner in advancing high-performance semiconductor materials with sustainable solutions. This collaboration empowers Cargill’s Bioindustrial division to deliver cutting-edge innovations to our customers in a rapidly growing market,” said Bryan Danek, Commercial Category Director, Cargill Bioindustrial.

Erwin Honcoop, Research and Technology leader at Cargill Bioindustrial, said: “We discovered that Priamine was delivering excellent performance in electronics and this partnership allows us to better understand why – and what more we can do to help our customers solve real-world challenges.”

“We’re excited to work with Cargill on this project,” said ASU Professor Tim Long.

“By combining bio-based chemistry with advanced research, we can help create better materials for the growing semiconductor market – and make technology more sustainable along the way.”

Arizona has become a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, driven by public and private investment and support from top research institutions like ASU. More than 40 semiconductor-related companies have launched or expanded operations in the state since 2020, creating tens of thousands of jobs and driving innovation forward.

“ASU is not only a leading research institution, but also a trusted advisor to companies that are shaping the future of electronics,” said Jeff Addy, R&D Manager, Cargill and an ASU alumnus.

“This collaboration gives us a chance to learn, grow, and ultimately offer better solutions to our customers.”

“University research plays a vital role in advancing the science and technology that underpin the semiconductor industry,” said Sally C. Morton, Executive Vice President, ASU Knowledge Enterprise.

“As the US cultivates investments in this industry, ASU’s ongoing research and workforce development are driving innovation and training the next generation of engineers and scientists. Arizona is the place to help secure a lab-to-fab ecosystem.”

Cargill’s Priamine line is made from bio-based raw materials and offers performance benefits such as flexibility, durability and moisture resistance. These qualities make it ideal for use in components like adhesives, films and coatings – all critical parts of semiconductor manufacturing.

As the demand for faster and more efficient technology grows, the Cargill/ASU partnership is aimed at ensuring the materials behind it are just as forward-looking.

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