At the IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM) on December 5, 2025, imec, a leading research and innovation hub in semiconductor technologies, showcased a significant advancement in nanotechnology. The organization successfully achieved wafer-scale fabrication of solid-state nanopores using extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. This groundbreaking development positions solid-state nanopores as promising tools for molecular sensing, paving the way for their future commercialization.
Solid-state nanopores have attracted attention for their potential applications in various fields, including genomics and diagnostics. They function by enabling the analysis of individual molecules as they pass through the nanopore, offering unprecedented sensitivity and precision. Until now, the challenge has been the cost-effective mass production of these devices, which has hindered their transition from research to practical use.
The successful demonstration at IEDM marks a crucial proof of concept for imec. By employing EUV lithography, a technique known for its high resolution and efficiency, imec has addressed key fabrication challenges. This advancement not only enhances the scalability of nanopore production but also positions imec at the forefront of semiconductor innovation.
Peter Hartmann, imec’s program manager, stated, “Our achievement in wafer-scale fabrication of solid-state nanopores represents a significant leap forward in the field. It opens new avenues for molecular sensing applications and could accelerate the integration of these tools in real-world scenarios.” This statement underscores the excitement surrounding the potential impact of this technology on diverse sectors.
The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond the laboratory. As industries increasingly seek efficient and sensitive methods for molecular analysis, the availability of commercially viable solid-state nanopores could transform areas such as healthcare, environmental monitoring, and food safety. With the ability to analyze molecules in real-time and at a lower cost, these devices could lead to advancements in early disease detection and personalized medicine.
As the technology progresses, imec is poised to collaborate with various partners to explore the commercial applications of solid-state nanopores. The organization’s commitment to innovation and research in semiconductor technologies continues to drive developments that could reshape the landscape of molecular sensing.
Looking ahead, the successful fabrication of solid-state nanopores at wafer scale marks an important milestone in the semiconductor industry. The integration of EUV lithography into this process not only enhances production capabilities but also sets a foundation for future advancements. As imec continues to refine this technology, the potential for solid-state nanopores to revolutionize molecular sensing becomes increasingly tangible.
