Evolution of VEB Trace Metals Freiberg (SMF) into Freiberger Compound Materials GmbH
- 1957: VEB Trace Metals Freiberg (SMF) founded as a state-owned company for pure materials and semiconductor materials production.
- 1958: First germanium dioxide produced.
- 1960s: Large-scale production test facility built, enabling Ge crystal growth. Silicon emerges as an alternative to germanium.
- 1970s-80s: Production of compound semiconductors (GaAs, GaP, InP, InAs) begins. Expansion of silicon production capacities. Polysilicon plant operational by 1981.
- 1989: At reunification, company had 1,800 employees, producing 450,000 Si disks.
- 1990: FEW operates as Freiberger Elektronikwerkstoffe GmbH (FEW) under Treuhandanstalt.
- 1991: FEW taken over by Horst Plaschna Management GmbH & Co. KG. Dr. Werner Freiesleben prevents decommissioning, leading to privatization.
- 1992: Production of wafers using Wacker technology starts. Structural changes and establishing new customer contacts.
- 1994: Bayer AG takes over solar silicon business area. Federmann Enterprises Ltd. takes over GaAs division, forming Freiberger Compound Materials GmbH.
- 1995: Contract with Wacker signed. Federmann Enterprises Ltd. takes over GaAs division. Production moved to new location.
- 1997: Siemens (Infineon Technologies AG) acquires 12.5% stake in FCM. High sales growth achieved.
- 1998: Mass production of LEC crystals and wafers introduced.
- 1999: Development of own VGF technology begins. Planning for capacity expansion.
- 2000: Foundation stone for Fab2 laid. Global market share reaches 20%. Introduction of 8" GaAs LEC wafer production.
- 2001-2002: Continuation of VGF capacities construction. Introduction of new VGF technology and wire saw technology.
- 2010: Commissioning of combined heat and power plant to reduce energy costs.
- 2013: Cleanroom capacity expansion due to increased demand.
- 2015: FCM celebrates 20th company anniversary.
Source: Freiberger
