The US Department of Commerce announced on Wednesday plans to fund research into using artificial intelligence (AI) to develop sustainable semiconductor materials and manufacturing processes. The goal is to create innovative and commercially competitive technologies that protect the environment and local communities. Through the CHIPS for America programme, the Department of Commerce will allocate up to $100 million to support university-led collaborations focused on AI-powered autonomous experimentation (AI/AE) for sustainable semiconductor manufacturing. The Department is overseeing $52.7 billion in US chips manufacturing and research grants. US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasised the importance of AI in accelerating the development of sustainable materials and manufacturing processes for the semiconductor industry. She highlighted the potential of AI to help the US build a strong and enduring domestic semiconductor industry. Arati Prabhakar, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, noted that AI can significantly speed up the complex process of developing sustainable semiconductor materials. She emphasized the role of CHIPS research and development in supporting manufacturers and fostering innovation. AI/AE has the potential to revolutionise materials research and development by combining automated tools with an AI "planner" to accelerate the design and acquisition of materials data. This approach can also facilitate collaboration among research universities, emerging research institutions, industry, and national laboratories. CHIPS for America is uniquely positioned to work with stakeholders across various sectors to investigate and commercialize sustainable semiconductor solutions. By addressing sustainability challenges, the program aims to engage universities and grow semiconductor research talent. The anticipated funding opportunity will support the sustainability of the US semiconductor industry while focusing on improving microelectronics power, performance, area, and cost metrics. The competition will also encourage greater participation from universities, including emerging research institutions, in semiconductor research and development. The notice of funding opportunity is expected to be released later this year. Attribution: The US Department of Commerce
