2D-EPL: 2D Pilot Line
The 2D Pilot Line Work Package supports the 2D Experimental Pilot Line’s (2D-EPL) development. It is responsible for defining the multi-project wafer (MPW) runs and disseminating the results of the project, as well as creating a business model that will make the pilot line available to European R&D players in a sustainable way.
This year’s progress
The first year of the project was critical to establishing the structure and infrastructure of the 2D-EPL. One key part of this infrastructure was the establishment of the Industrial Advisory Board, a group of ten experts from influential European semiconductor and electronics companies that help the 2D-EPL identify its client needs and industry trends. In parallel, the 2D-EPL allows them to have an inside track on recent progress and will provide them with insights on the maturity of the GRM integration, helping them in adopting future technologies.
In the past year we also took the preliminary steps towards launching our first MPW run, with the completion of the first process definition kits. A microsite for the 2D-EPL was also established on the Graphene Flagship website to allow clients to request further information and apply to the MPW runs. The wafer run call will be open the first half of 2022 and will run in the third quarter.
The work package also established a logo and brand identity for the 2D-EPL that illustrate the link to the project’s roots in the Graphene Flagship, while remaining independent enough to stand alone when the 2D-EPL’s European Commission funding comes to an end.
As a service work package, we are a cornerstone to collaborations in the project. The Industrial Advisory Board and Steering Committee keep the 2D-EPL partners aligned and ensure the work completed is compatible with the project and the industry’s needs.
Collaboration
As a service work package, we are a cornerstone to collaborations in the project. The dissemination efforts link all the work packages and partners through a common website, social media and events. In particular, our quarterly workshops have provided a medium for increasing the project’s visibility and creating a natural gathering point for the community. Future in person events will increase the networking opportunities afforded by these workshops.
The Industrial Advisory Board and Steering Committee keep the 2D-EPL partners aligned and ensure the work completed is compatible with the project and the industry’s needs.
What’s in store
The next year will be an exciting one for our work package, with two MPW run calls opening and the first run taking place before the end of the year. The lessons from this wafer run will help us to understand the 2D-EPL’s average customer, the scope and size of the runs and the overall outside interest in the project. Future actions will be tailored to take advantage of this information.