TFT-LCD Photomask Market

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The growth of the FPD market with the diffusion of digital home appliances is driving the large-format photomask market and prompting some companies to enter. In order to remain competitive in such circumstances, companies have been strengthening their technological capabilities and creating higher value-added products, as well as provide products at reasonable cost and with a delivery time that satisfies customer demands.

LCD panel manufacturers are sizing up glass substrates every year to catch up with the trend for larger-size products, including LCD TVs, and to improve productivity. Today, they are coming up with seventh-generation products. Larger glass substrates create the demand for larger photomasks

Normally, photomasks are made up of two areas that either let light through or block light completely. However, multi-tone masks also include areas that partially let light through. By using multi-tone photomasks with such characteristics, LCD panel manufacturers are able to reduce production process time, which leads to a growing need for mask production capabilities. The production of multi-tone masks requires more sophisticated technology than that required for regular photomasks. The introduction of cutting-edge facilities in an innovative manufacturing environment at photomask plants forms the foundation of competitiveness.

This report examines the market for TFT photomasks for LCD manufacturing. Markets for masks and LCDs are forecast and market shares presented.

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