Edge chipping of silicon wafers in diamond grinding

Abstract

Although diamond grinding is the most commonly used machining technique in silicon wafer thinning, it often induces edge chipping which leads to wafer breakage. This study investigates edge chipping of silicon wafer in diamond grinding. The study correlates edge chipping with the crystallographic orientation and thickness of a silicon wafer, as well as grinding process conditions, such as wheel grit size, grinding mode and feed rate. It identifies edge chipping in terms of critical thickness, geometry and dimensions. The study discusses the mechanisms of edge chipping based on machining mechanics and energy theories. Conclusions are drawn to summarize the study.