High-purity quartz is an essential raw material used in the production of quartz components that play a critical role in semiconductor manufacturing. The proposed funding would support Sibelco's continued innovation and research activities in the United States, advancing HPQ processing technologies and strengthening reliable domestic capabilities for the production of semiconductor-grade HPQ.
The proposed project includes research and development across four areas
: next-generation leaching technologies; next-generation hot chlorination technologies; HPQ product engineering; and the development of a technology piloting and demonstration facility to support the testing, validation and scaling of new processes and products.
“The Trump Administration is accelerating American semiconductor innovation to enhance our domestic energy and power resources,”
said
Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick.
“This investment expands domestic research, secures critical supply chains, and creates high-paying American jobs.”“This incentive strengthens America's semiconductor supply chain and creates significant new opportunities for American workers,”
said
Bill White, U.S. Ambassador to Belgium. “Bringing Sibelco's extraordinary technology to the United States puts American workers at the centre of that critically important industry, one that has vital national security interests at its core. It's a clear example of how a great Belgian company can help build America's industrial future. We are so proud of everyone who worked so hard to put this amazing deal together.”“This Letter of Intent represents a significant step for Sibelco and reflects the importance of high-purity quartz within the semiconductor manufacturing supply
chain” said
, CEO of Sibelco.
“This proposed award would enable us to accelerate our research and development activities in the United States and build on Sibelco’s long-standing presence and expertise in North Carolina. We look forward to working with the U.S. Department of Commerce to advance technologies that support a secure and resilient semiconductor supply chain.”The Letter of Intent represents an important milestone toward a final award. The proposed award remains subject to confirmatory due diligence, further negotiations and the U.S. Government's internal approval process.
