Malvern Panalytical has acquired the product line for six X-ray diffraction systems developed by Freiberg Instruments. By combining proven crystal orientation technology with a global sales and service network, the acquisition makes these specialized solutions more widely accessible to semiconductor manufacturers around the world.
Semiconductor production increasingly relies on a diverse range of crystalline substrate materials. Before ingots, boules and wafers enter downstream processes such as cutting, grinding, epitaxy, lithography or ion implantation, their crystallographic orientation must be determined with high accuracy.
Even small deviations in crystal orientation or offcut angle can affect the material properties and performance of the final component. Fast and reliable orientation measurements therefore help manufacturers improve process control, increase yield, reduce material waste and use valuable semiconductor materials more efficiently.
The acquired portfolio comprises six X-ray diffraction systems for crystal orientation: DDCOM, SDCOM, Omega/Theta, Wafer XRD 200, Wafer XRD 300 and XRD-OEM. The solutions cover applications ranging from compact benchtop measurements and automated wafer inspection to direct integration into industrial cutting and grinding equipment.
At the core of the systems is Freiberg Instruments’ ultra-fast Omega Scan technology. It determines the complete crystal lattice orientation within a single measuring rotation, enabling precise results within seconds. This combination of speed, accuracy and robust system design supports both industrial quality control and advanced materials research.
“Our XRD solutions, with their ultra-fast Omega Scan technology, have consistently demonstrated their value to semiconductor manufacturers,”
says Dr. Kay Dornich, CEO of Freiberg Instruments.
The acquisition brings together the specialized measurement expertise of Freiberg Instruments and the international market presence of Malvern Panalytical. It strengthens Malvern Panalytical’s semiconductor metrology portfolio while extending the global reach of the crystal orientation systems.
Freiberg Instruments continues to support its existing customers and develop specialized measurement solutions for demanding applications. This includes customized systems, integrated automation and complete workflows tailored to individual production environments.
The agreement demonstrates how proven technologies can be scaled through strategic collaboration. By making advanced crystal orientation solutions available to a broader international market, both companies are supporting more precise, efficient and sustainable semiconductor manufacturing.
For further details, read the press release by Malvern Panalytical.