China Develops Its Own Critical Technology for Semiconductor Industry
China has achieved a significant breakthrough in the semiconductor industry, with a state-run research institute developing its own version of a crucial technology known as transmission electron microscopes. The Guangzhou-based research institute Bioland Laboratory has successfully built China’s first transmission electron microscope, named the TH-F120, according to reports in state media. This advancement is expected to support various scientific and industrial sectors such as materials science, life sciences, and semiconductors. It also reflects China’s rapid progress in key technologies, despite facing intense international competition and US restrictions.
Transmission Electron Microscopes: A Key Technology in Semiconductor Development
Transmission electron microscopes play a vital role in the development of new nanostructured semiconductor materials. By passing a beam of electrons through an extremely thin specimen, these microscopes generate high-resolution images that are crucial in studying and advancing semiconductor technology.
The TH-F120 microscope developed by Bioland Laboratory, offers several advantages compared to its imported counterparts. Its thermal emission electron gun, for instance, generates brighter and more stable emissions, resulting in highly detailed images. The successful development and mass production of this critical technology would significantly reduce China’s reliance on imported equipment.
Growing Urgency for Indigenous Technological Advancements
The urgency to achieve home-grown technology has escalated following US sanctions on Chinese telecom equipment producer ZTE in 2018. Since then, further sanctions have been imposed, establishing barriers for China’s access to semiconductor technology. Consequently, China invested 3 billion yuan (US$416 million) in 2022 to import 300 transmission electron microscopes.
China’s Rapid Progress and Chokepoint Technologies
This recent accomplishment by Bioland Laboratory aligns with China’s broader goal of achieving scientific and technological self-reliance. In 2018, the Ministry of Science and Technology identified transmission electron microscopes as one of the 35 “stranglehold” or “chokepoint” technologies that China needed to develop. China’s continuous efforts and investments in research and development have positioned Bioland Laboratory as a key player in the global market for transmission electron microscopes.
President Xi Jinping’s Call for Technological Breakthroughs
Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of high-quality development and breakthroughs in core technologies. In a recent message to attendees at the National Engineer Awards, President Xi encouraged engineers and technicians to have the courage to pursue innovations in key fields. China’s consistent focus on technological advancement reflects its determination to become a global leader in critical industries.
Future of the Microscope Market and Implications for China
The global market for transmission electron microscopes was valued at US$825 million in 2018, with projections indicating it could exceed US$1 billion by 2028. China’s progress in developing its own microscopes could lead to domestic production capabilities, reducing reliance on foreign imports. This achievement not only strengthens China’s position in the semiconductor industry but also highlights its ability to thrive in the face of intense international competition and restrictive measures.
Analyst comment
Positive news: China Develops Its Own Critical Technology for Semiconductor Industry
As an analyst, I predict that China’s development of its own transmission electron microscopes will have a positive impact on the market. It will reduce China’s reliance on imported equipment and strengthen its position in the semiconductor industry. This achievement showcases China’s ability to thrive in the face of international competition and restrictive measures, leading to potential domestic production capabilities and market growth.
