Purdue experts oppose SK Hynix semiconductor facility near residential area

The Tippecanoe County Area Plan Commission meeting held on March 19, 2025, focused on significant discussions surrounding the proposed SK Hynix semiconductor facility. The meeting featured input from Purdue University officials, including Vice President for Global Partnerships, who emphasized the complexity and potential hazards associated with the facility.

The vice president, who has extensive experience in semiconductor engineering, clarified misconceptions about the facility's nature. He stated that while it is categorized as an advanced packaging facility, it involves intricate processes comparable to those found in semiconductor fabrication plants. He highlighted that the production of high bandwidth memory chips involves numerous hazardous chemicals and processes, raising concerns about environmental safety and the handling of toxic materials on-site.

The speaker expressed skepticism regarding the commitments made by SK Hynix, arguing that they do not address the core operations of the facility. He stressed the importance of focusing on what the company will actually do at the site rather than irrelevant commitments. Additionally, he raised concerns about the environmental impact of construction on farmland, particularly the potential for fertilizer dust to affect the surrounding area.

Another Purdue faculty member, Sylvain Kubis, also voiced support for SK Hynix's presence in Greater Lafayette but echoed concerns about the facility's location. Both speakers underscored the need for careful consideration of the implications of placing such a facility near residential zones.

The meeting concluded with a clear call for further evaluation of the proposed site, emphasizing the need for community safety and environmental protection as the commission moves forward with its deliberations. The discussions highlighted the balance between economic development and the potential risks associated with advanced manufacturing facilities in residential areas.