Semiconductor Chip Manufacturing: Related to Cancer, Birth Defects and Miscarriages

The process of semiconductor chip fabrication in clean rooms involves exposure to photoresist containing glycol ethers and other dangerous solvents. There have been several cases litigated against National Semiconductor, IBM and Zilog based on exposure to ethylene based glycol ethers.

Workers May be Exposed during the Semiconductor Chip Manufacturing Process.

Manufacturing a computer chip involves a complex fabrication process, creating a chip that consists of many layers with each layer having a complex pattern. The step in the manufacturing process that results in exposure to solvents is the creation of the detailed pattern on the silicone layers. The detailed patterns are created on the layers of silicon using a technique called photolithography. Photolithography involves applying photoresist over the silicon. The unexposed silicone is washed away using solvents. Often the the solvent contains harmful substances such as glycol ethers, and plant clean room workers involved in photolithography may be harmed by inhalation and exposure.

Injuries Caused by Glycol Ethers include:

Reproductive and developmental health problems such as miscarriages, spontaneous abortions, damage to testes, subfertility, damage to embryo and fetus, and birth defects.

The major manufacturers of these chips include: Intel, IBM, national Semiconductor, Digital (compaq), Motorola, Texas Instruments, and Advanced Micro Devices.

If you worked in the semiconductor chip manufacturing industry from 1986 through the mid-1990's and you think you may have injuries related to glycol ether exposure our lawyers offer a free consultation about your possible legal remedies to pay for treatment and obtain compensation from the responsible and negligent companies.

To be referred to an attorney specializing in this area please contact us below.