STMicroelectronics Announces Expanded ‘Lab-in-Fab’ Collaboration in Singapore

STMicroelectronics, in collaboration with the A*STAR Institute of Microelectronics (A*STAR IME) and ULVAC, announces the expansion of the “Lab-in-Fab” (LiF) in Singapore. This new phase includes projects with Singapore’s A*STAR Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (A*STAR IMRE) and the National University of Singapore (NUS).

This initiative will contribute to advancing environmentally friendly lead-free piezoelectric materials and enabling miniaturized, cost-effective sensors and actuators. Institutes of higher learning (IHLs), startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and multinational corporations (MNCs) will be able to leverage the complete manufacturing line to accelerate the commercialization of new piezoelectric micro-electro-mechanical systems (piezoMEMS) devices.

Examples of devices expected to be manufactured include piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducers (PMUT) for 3D mapping and imaging, miniaturized speakers for personal electronics and autofocus devices for smartphone camera modules.

“We are excited to advance our collaboration with A*STAR IME and ULVAC, and welcome A*STAR IMRE and NUS to work on new projects in the Lab-in-Fab 2.0. This initiative will drive innovation in piezoelectric MEMS technology and support the commercialization of next-generation devices,” said Anton Hofmeister, group VP and GM, Central R&D for the Analog, Power & Discrete, MEMS & Sensors Group, STMicroelectronics.

“We are innovating the way we translate R&D outcomes by deepening and broadening the partnerships between key innovators in materials, tools, process modules, technology development, design, and manufacturing. This shall accelerate the commercialization of next-generation power-efficient piezoMEMS devices using environmentally friendly lead-free materials and strengthen Singapore’s position in the global semiconductor value chain,” said Professor Yeo Yee Chia, deputy chief executive (innovation & enterprise) at A*STAR.

“We are proud to be part of this groundbreaking initiative and to contribute our expertise in manufacturing technology solutions for the piezoMEMS industry,” said Harunori Iwai, Executive Officer, General Manager of Advanced Electronics Equipment Division, Equipment Business HQ, ULVAC.

The success of the initial Lab-in-Fab, which was established in 2020 to develop a physical vapor deposited (PVD) method of growing lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin films—significantly reducing lead content compared to conventional bulk piezoelectric technology—has led to this expansion.

Lab-in-Fab is a key participant in Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem, fostering collaborations with sensor and actuator product companies, manufacturing companies and their suppliers.

“The Lab-in-Fab initiative has been a game-changer in advancing piezoelectric MEMS technology,” said Professor Lu Yipeng, associate professor, School of Integrated Circuit, Peking University. “The collaboration between public and private sectors has enabled us to achieve breakthroughs that would have been impossible in isolation. We are proud to be part of this innovative ecosystem.”