Ground broken at TSMC Arizona industrial reclaimed water plant

Taipei, Aug. 28 (CNA) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) on Thursday announced ground has been broken at the company's industrial reclaimed water factory in Arizona, which is scheduled to begin operation in 2028.

The company said the factory's water recycling rate will start at 85 percent, with plans to gradually raise it to 90 percent or higher, aiming for "near net-zero wastewater emissions."

Situated on 15 acres of land, the factory reflects the company's commitment to sustainable operations, transforming industrial wastewater into 'ultrapure water' that meets the standards required for semiconductor manufacturing, TSMC said.

Ultrapure water is used to clean away micro particles that can damage semiconductor chips, and is especially important for advanced chips, such as the 4-nanometer chips manufactured at the company's Arizona fab, the company said.

Rose Castanares, president of TSMC subsidiary TSMC Arizona, said the company chose Phoenix, Arizona for its U.S. operations because of the meticulous plans made by state and city governments, including a 100-year plan on water supply.

Water resources have long been a matter of concern in the area, and TSMC has pledged to be a responsible neighbor with its use of natural resources, especially water, she said.

The reclaimed water factory shows TSMC's commitment to sustainability and ensuring stable water supply for the ever-flourishing Phoenix community, said Castanares.

TSMC noted the company has several operating industrial water treatment plants in Taiwan and was the first company to successfully use industrial reclaimed water in the advanced semiconductor manufacturing process in 2022.

The design of the Arizona plant will take into consideration the local water quality, which contains much more magnesium and calcium than water in Taiwan, the company said.

TSMC said it is implementing a comprehensive strategy to conserve water and promote sustainable management and restoration of water resources through measures and technologies that reduce consumption, improve quality and enhance usability.