Asahi Kasei, a multifaceted global organization, has officially opened a new slitting facility for its SUNFORT™ dry film photoresist (DFR) at its production base in Tainan, Taiwan, with operations set to begin this month.
Asahi Kasei has been engaged in slitting SUNFORT™ DFR at its Tainan location since 1997. In recent times, the surge in demand for sophisticated semiconductor packaging—propelled by advancements in AI and escalating data processing needs—has been notable. Consequently, the DFR utilized in semiconductor packaging is now required to comply with increasingly rigorous standards concerning both quality and reliability of supply. Given this landscape, Taiwan’s significance as a hub for semiconductor packaging companies underscores the necessity for an efficient supply network that can provide products quickly and dependably in close proximity to its clientele.
Slitting involves cutting master rolls of film into narrower widths according to specific customer specifications. This operation is vital as it directly influences both the quality of the final product and supply reliability.
In order to meet the rising market appetite for DFR, Asahi Kasei’s new slitting facility boasts advanced machinery and adheres to some of the most stringent cleanroom standards, ensuring enhanced productivity and consistent supply. The facility represents an investment of around ¥2 billion (about $12 million or €11 million) and is anticipated to boost production capacity by 40%, with the potential to double the existing output.
The SUNFORT™ DFR provides ultra-high resolution compatible with conventional stepper exposure systems and laser direct imaging (LDI) systems, enabling precise circuit pattern transfer onto substrates for packaging. This method significantly enhances both performance and accuracy in the back-end processes of semiconductor manufacturing.
Asahi Kasei’s dedication to SUNFORT™ DFR reflects the company’s strategy to elevate its Electronics Business as a pivotal growth initiative. In May 2025, Asahi Kasei introduced SUNFORT™ TA, its latest DFR series optimized for advanced semiconductor packaging applications used in AI servers.
About Asahi Kasei
Asahi Kasei is a diverse global enterprise committed to enhancing life and living standards for individuals worldwide. Established in 1922 and initially focused on ammonia and cellulose fiber, Asahi Kasei has continually expanded its portfolio through proactive transformations to address the changing needs of different eras. With a workforce of 50,000 globally, the company is dedicated to sustainability by delivering solutions to the world’s challenges across its three primary sectors: Healthcare, Homes, and Materials. For further details, visit https://www.asahi-kasei.com/.
