Mikrofabrikoinnin

Mikrofabrikoinnin, also known as microfabrication, refers to the processes used to create miniature structures and devices, typically on the scale of micrometers (millionths of a meter). These techniques are fundamental to the manufacturing of a wide range of technologies, most notably integrated circuits (microchips) used in electronics. The core principle involves precisely shaping and patterning materials, often starting with a substrate like silicon.

Key processes within microfabrication include lithography, where patterns are transferred onto a substrate using light or other forms of radiation. Etching is another critical step, used to selectively remove material according to the lithographically defined pattern, creating the desired features. Deposition techniques, such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or physical vapor deposition (PVD), are employed to add thin layers of various materials. Other important methods include ion implantation for altering material properties and planarization techniques to create smooth surfaces for subsequent layers.

The applications of microfabrication extend far beyond microelectronics. It is essential for producing microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), which are tiny mechanical devices with integrated electronics, found in sensors, actuators, and accelerometers. It also plays a role in the development of microfluidic devices for chemical analysis and drug delivery, as well as in the creation of advanced optics and biomedical implants. The precision and scalability offered by microfabrication are driving innovation across numerous scientific and technological fields.