TEMPE, Ariz.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Cargill Bioindustrial and Arizona State University (ASU) are launching a new, year-long research partnership focused on advanced materials used in semiconductor technology — the foundation of modern electronics from smartphones to electric vehicles.
The research is focused on Cargill™ Priamine™ dimer diamine, which is made from bio-based ingredients. With support from ASU’s Biodesign Institute, scientists will study how and why this material performs so well, and how it might be used to improve the speed, efficiency, and reliability of electronic devices.
Originally developed for other applications, Priamine™, dimer diamine has shown strong potential in the semiconductor industry. Polyimide made using Priamine™ exhibits very low dielectric constant, enhancing the performance of semiconductor devices.
“ASU is a premier research institution and a trusted partner in advancing high-performance semiconductor materials with sustainable solutions. This collaboration empowers Cargill’s Bioindustrial division to deliver cutting-edge innovations to our customers in a rapidly growing market,” said Bryan Danek, commercial category director at Cargill Bioindustrial.
Bringing Science and Industry Together
“This is a great example of how customer feedback and academic research can open up new possibilities,” said Erwin Honcoop, research and technology leader at Cargill Bioindustrial in Netherlands. “We discovered that Priamine™ was delivering excellent performance in electronics, and this partnership allows us to better understand why — and what more we can do to help our customers solve real-world challenges.”
ASU professor Tim Long and his team will lead the research. “We’re excited to work with Cargill on this project,” Long said. “By combining bio-based chemistry with advanced research, we can help create better materials for the growing semiconductor market — and make technology more sustainable along the way.”
A Strategic Partnership for a Fast-Growing Industry
Arizona has become a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, driven by public and private investment and support from top research institutions like ASU. More than 40 semiconductor-related companies have launched or expanded operations in the state since 2020, creating tens of thousands of jobs and driving innovation forward.
“ASU is not only a leading research institution, but also a trusted advisor to companies that are shaping the future of electronics,” added Jeff Addy, R&D manager at Cargill and an ASU alumnus. “This collaboration gives us a chance to learn, grow, and ultimately offer better solutions to our customers.”
“University research plays a vital role in advancing the science and technology that underpin the semiconductor industry,” said Sally C. Morton, executive vice president of ASU Knowledge Enterprise. “As the U.S. cultivates investments in this industry, ASU’s ongoing research and workforce development are driving innovation and training the next generation of engineers and scientists. Arizona is the place to help secure a lab-to-fab ecosystem.”
Innovation Rooted in Sustainability
Cargill’s Priamine™ line is made from bio-based raw materials and offers performance benefits such as flexibility, durability and moisture resistance. These qualities make it ideal for use in components like adhesives, films and coatings — all critical parts of semiconductor manufacturing.
As the demand for faster and more efficient technology grows, Cargill and ASU are working together to ensure the materials behind it are just as forward-looking.
About Cargill
Cargill is committed to providing food, ingredients, and industrial products to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. Sitting at the heart of the supply chain, we partner with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living.
Our approximately 160,000 employees innovate with purpose, providing customers with life’s essentials so businesses can grow, communities prosper, and consumers live well. With 160 years of experience as a family company, we look ahead while remaining true to our values. We put people first. We reach higher. We do the right thing—today and for generations to come. For more information, visit Cargill.com and our News Center.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University (ASU) is a leading institution in the field of microelectronics, playing a crucial role in the state’s semiconductor industry. ASU’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering have grown steadily, increasing enrollment and broadening their scope to meet the demands of the industry. ASU’s contributions are vital in positioning Arizona as a leading center for semiconductor technology investments.
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