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New Controls on Semiconductor Tools and Gas Turbine Tech

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New Controls on Semiconductor Tools and Gas Turbine Tech

 

Commerce (BIS) issued an interim final rule August 12, establishing new export controls on four technologies supporting the production of advanced semiconductors and gas turbine engines that meet the criteria for emerging and foundational technologies under Section 1758 of the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA).

 

These four technologies are among the items that the 42 Participating States of the Wassenaar Arrangement agreed to control at the December 2021 Plenary. [Further information on other changes agreed to during the Wassenaar Arrangement’s December 2021 Plenary is available here.]

 

“Technological advancements that allow technologies like semiconductors and engines to operate faster, more efficiently, longer, and in more severe conditions can be game changers in both the commercial and military context,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security Alan Estevez.  “When we recognize the risks as well as the benefits, and act in concert with our international partners, we can ensure that our shared security objectives are met, innovation is supported, and companies across the globe operate on a level playing field.” 

 

Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Thea D. Rozman Kendler said  “We are protecting the four technologies identified in today’s rule from nefarious end use by applying controls through a multilateral regime.  This rule demonstrates our continued commitment to imposing export controls together with our international partners.  Export controls are most effective when multilaterally imposed.” 

 

The four technologies covered by today’s rule include two substrates of ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors: Gallium Oxide (Ga₂O₃), and diamond; Electronic Computer-Aided Design (ECAD) software specially designed for the development of integrated circuits with Gate-All-Around Field-Effect Transistor (GAAFET) structure; and Pressure Gain Combustion (PGC) technology. 

 

• Gallium Oxide and diamond are materials that allow semiconductors that use them to work under more severe conditions, such as at higher voltages or higher temperatures.  
• ECAD is a category of software tools used for designing, analyzing, optimizing, and validating the performance of integrated circuits or printed circuit boards.   GAAFET technology approaches are key to scaling to 3 nanometer and below technology nodes.  
• PGC technology has the extensive potential for terrestrial and aerospace applications, including rockets and hypersonic systems.  BIS has added controls on development and production technology for combustors that are not described on the U.S. Munitions List.   

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