Minimizing Contamination for State-of-the-Art Sample Analysis

By Betty Pennington, and Sarah Schoen, Ph.D.

BACTERIA LABORATORY MAINTENANCE MONITORING POINT OF USE SEMICONDUCTORS TESTING TRACE ANALYSIS MEASUREMENTS INSTRUMENTS

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Abstract

Semiconductor geometries continue to shrink and ultrapure water (UPW*) guidelines continue to push quality requirements and analytical methods to lower levels in order to meet fab processing needs. Sampling is the fundamental step of high-purity water testing and an appropriate, representative sample is critical for accurate results. Extremely low levels are only achieved by continually refining and improving our basic knowledge and understanding of sample collection. Sample valve design and set-up can be a significant hindrance to obtaining clean samples. At times, data is reported with a note indicating potentially false high hits due to suspected sampling contamination. False high data generates confusion for facilities operations personnel where port or environmental artifacts must be explained or rechecked to show the UPW system is or is not in compliance. It also wastes time and money due to resampling. Eliminating or minimizing false high hits is possible by investigating proper sample valve designs, set-up and preparation techniques.

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