Ultrapure Water Production Process
To produce highly pure water, numerous treatment processes are required. Compared to the 7 stages in water purification plant processes for tap water production and the 10 stages in seawater desalination processes, ultra-pure water undergoes more than 25 stages in total.
"To localize ultra-pure water, the government is designating semiconductors as a key industry and reflecting water supply in national plans with full support."
Current Status of Ultrapure Water Technology in Korea
- Ultrapure water technology involves high initial investment costs and is challenging to commercialize due to the high entry barriers set by demanding industries, leaving the field still underdeveloped.
- Domestic companies participate in some construction and operation of ultrapure water systems for semiconductors. However, difficulties in verification and commercialization lead to reliance on foreign companies for overall design, construction, and operation.
- Demand companies tend to avoid risks associated with using new technologies and products to ensure stable production. The lack of credible performance certifications and infrastructure imposes constraints on the development of domestic technology.
K-water's Role in Localizing Ultrapure Water Technology
- Since 2011, K-water has collaborated with SMEs on pilot plant installation, operation, and related research.
- In 2013, K-water built a semiconductor ultrapure water pilot plant (25㎥/day) for demonstration research.
- K-water achieved stable ultrapure water production, filing three patents, registering two programs, and acquiring one GS certification.
- In June 2021, K-water was selected for a 28.1 billion KRW project to localize high-purity industrial water technology.
- In November 2021, a demonstration plant for ultrapure water began construction at SK Siltron in Gumi.
* Pilot Plant: A small-scale trial facility for testing new processes or products—enhancing ultrapure water production capabilities.