Unique commercial applications of the sol-gel process in Japan

Two unique commercial applications of the sol-gel process in Japan are presented. One application involves alkoxide-derived nanometer-sized silica particles used in the final polishing of silicon wafers for the fabrication of integrated circuits. The particles are cocoon-like in shape and have almost replaced conventional abrasives because of the advantages over spherical particles of similar size in terms of obtaining high polishing efficiency for good surface finish. The other application concerns the treatment of paper with an alkoxide solution for water repellent and oil resistance properties, which leads to new products for disposable tableware or cooking ware for microwave oven use.