In the first two parts of this series, we explored how semiconductors are reshaping healthcare and how SkyWater supports innovators with tailored solutions. In this final installment, we look under the hood at the technology architectures—CMOS, MEMS, CMOS+X, and more—that are enabling the next generation of biomedical devices.
Engineering Better Health: A SkyWater Blog Series – Part 3
By Brian O’Loughlin, SkyWater Solutions Engineer
SkyWater enables biomedical innovation through a mix of standard CMOS platform technologies, highly customized process technologies, and, if needed, even a hybrid of the two called CMOS+X. This flexibility to choose an efficient starting point positions us as a leader in supporting next generation biomedical solutions. Key technology areas include:
- Standard CMOS Platforms: SkyWater’s factory-supported 90 nm and 130 nm CMOS platforms provide the foundation for electrical-based medical and healthcare device designs.
- CMOS + X Integration: Based on a standard CMOS technology, integrating biosensors materials and architectures in electrical-based designs, enabling precise detection of voltage- and current-based biological signals.
- MEMS: 65 nm capable and ebeam photolithography enable world-class miniaturized MEMS structures and precision for lab-on-a-chip systems; roadmap capabilities will enable unique die shapes and ultra-large die sizes.
- Heterogeneous Integration (HI): Combining multiple technologies, such as photonics and MEMS, HI such as hybrid wafer bonding enables sophisticated devices for diagnostics and therapeutics.
The specific approach needed always starts with an assessment of overall goals, performance requirements, development timeline, and other integration considerations as part of SkyWater’s scoping process. This careful effort prior to the start of any development work ensures that the best initial technical integration path is chosen which best manages the mix of development cost, performance, technical risk, time to market, quality required, and final volume production cost.
Each application is unique, but some commonly used capabilities and processing modules can include:
- 65nm lithography with baseline process modules at the 90nm node plus ability to integrate smaller features (e.g., 40 nm trenches)
- Small holes/nanopores/trenches/nanochannels, and up to full wafer size die, enable large format device with tight overlay capability to other device layers
- Thin Pt, as well as ALD thin film processing (Al2O3, HfO2, SiO2, TiN) capability, allow for developing electrode exposure to aqueous environments or very thin and conformal coating applications
- High aspect ratio patterning, etching, deposition enable large 3D integration and novel device integrations
In addition, SkyWater is also developing processing capabilities on transparent (fused silica) wafers for through wafer optical analysis and Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) integrated with standard CMOS.
Why Biomedical Innovators Choose SkyWater
SkyWater stands out in the biomedical market because we combine technical capabilities, regulatory compliance and customer-centric development. Here’s what sets us apart:
- U.S.-based manufacturing, domestic supply chain, secure IP environment
- Collaborative model offering tailored solutions, not catalog parts
- Well over a decade of experience in biomedical development
- Miniaturization and device shrink expertise to enable smaller devices
- ISO 13485 Certified and DMEA Cat1A Trusted Supplier
Our flexible platform technologies allow customers to start with the right baseline and evolve designs through rapid iteration.
The Road Ahead
The convergence of semiconductors and biomedical advancements is transforming healthcare, from personalized medicine to real-time monitoring and advanced diagnostics. As demand grows, SkyWater is proud to support biomedical innovators with the expertise and capabilities to bring breakthrough ideas to life. Our proven processes meet rigorous regulatory standards, including those needed for FDA clinical trials, helping create a healthier, more connected world.
Thanks for joining us for this three-part series on biomedical innovation. If you’re ready to explore how SkyWater can accelerate your next innovation, contact us or learn more at skywatertechnology.com.