[News] Absolics Reportedly Ramps Up Glass Substrate Output, Mass Production Expected by Year-End

The advancement of glass substrate technology has drawn significant attention across the semiconductor industry. According to a report from ETNews, industry sources on July 3 noted that Absolics—a subsidiary of SKC—is ramping up its production of glass substrates. ETNews highlights that this move is intended to boost shipments in preparation for full-scale mass production for customers.

As noted in a May report by The Korea Herald, Absolics aims to complete preparations for mass production by the end of 2025. The outlet also states that Absolics is expected to become the first company to commercialize glass substrates and has already begun prototype production at its Georgia, U.S. facility, which has an annual capacity of 12,000 square meters.

Meanwhile, ETNews states that Absolics is reportedly in discussions with AMD and Amazon (AWS) regarding glass substrate supply and is nearing the “pre-qualification” stage—where fundamental performance and quality metrics are verified.

ETNews further notes that Absolics plans to increase procurement of materials and components for glass substrate processing by over 60% in the second half of this year. Citing sources, the report adds that equipment purchase orders and additional investments are expected by year-end to support the production scale-up.

Absolics Expands Financing to Boost Manufacturing Capabilities

As the report notes, Absolics secured funding in the first half of this year through a combination of semiconductor subsidies and debt financing. In the first quarter, the company borrowed $50 million and later, in May, received a $40 million initial installment in manufacturing subsidies under the U.S. CHIPS Act.

Looking ahead, the report highlights that Absolics is preparing a capital increase through a rights offering involving its two largest shareholders, SKC and Applied Materials, with plans to boost manufacturing capabilities.

South Korea’s Major Players Accelerate Glass Substrate Efforts

In addition to Absolics, other players are also actively advancing glass substrate development. The Korea Herald, citing sources, states that Samsung plans to adopt glass substrate interposers for its advanced semiconductors by 2028 to “meet customer demands,” and has reportedly begun operating a pilot line at its Sejong facility.

Meanwhile, The Korea Herald also notes that LG Innotek is preparing to enter the market, building a pilot line at its Gumi plant with plans to start prototype production by year-end.

Read more

• [News] Intel Reportedly Considering Dropping Glass Substrate Project, Eyes External Sourcing
• [News] Samsung Reportedly Eyes Glass Interposers by 2028, Speeds up Prototyping with Smaller Panels

(Photo credit: SKC)