Electronics industry chemical engineers role

In the electronics industry, a large number of relatively small firms play a key role in generating new process concepts and equipment. These firms face important research problems in fundamental science and engineering that would benefit markedly from the insights of academic chemical engineering researchers. Academic researchers should seek out and forge links to these small firms that stand at the crucial step between laboratory research and production processes. Potential mechanisms for accomplishing this are described in Chapter 10. 

The industries that manufacture materials and components for electronic and optical-based systems are characterized by products that are rapidly superseded in the market by improved ones. This quick turnover stems from the intense competition among these industries and results in dramatic price erosion for products, once introduced. Consequently, these industries also require rapid technology transfer from the research laboratory onto the production line. Many of their products cannot be protected by patents, except for minor features. Therefore, the key to their competitive success is thoroughly characterized and integrated manufacturing processes, supported by process innovations. Since nearly all of the processes are chemically based, chemical engineers can play an important role in ensuring the success of these companies. 

Materials engineers specialize in metals or ceramics. They create new materials to meet certain mechanical, electrical, or chemical standards. They also evaluate existing materials for new applications. Materials engineers work for the government and in the aviation, metal processing, electronics, automotive, and other industries in which materials play key roles. 

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