SisuSemi – where does that come from, what does it mean?

SisuSemi provides a game-changing solution for the semiconductor industry with its Ultra High Vacuum, elevated temperature and controlled oxidation technology that cleans silicon surfaces and orders atomic-level crystalline structure. This results to such benefits in semiconductor chips as improved performance and quality, decreased power consumption and better manufacturing yield.

So, the etymology of the latter part of the SisuSemi name is clear – but where does the first part, Sisu, come from?

First, silicon substrate-based (SiSu-based) semiconductors are the backbone of the semiconductor industry and have been for decades. Silicon’s dominance comes down to a few key factors: Silicon is abundant—it's the second most common element in the Earth's crust, making up about 28% of it. This keeps raw material costs manageable.

Second, silicon has excellent physical properties for semiconductor use. It forms a stable oxide layer (silicon dioxide) that’s perfect for insulation and protecting circuits, and it can be doped with impurities like boron or phosphorus to tweak its electrical behaviour. This versatility makes it ideal for crafting transistors.  Silicon-based semiconductors account for the vast majority of the market—over 90% of chips produced globally rely on silicon substrates.  

That said, silicon is not unchallenged, but there is still plenty of room to push the envelope. Developments like advanced architectures, 3D integration, doping silicon with new materials or layering it with thin films can enhance its properties and silicon photonics - using silicon to handle light signals – are turbocharging silicon and further expanding its use. Not to speak about new opportunities that the SisuSemi technology will bring.

As we are working on atomic-level cleanliness, we are focusing on phenomena near the surfaces. Our goal is to achieve atomic-level cleanliness and ensure a perfect crystal structure covered with a stable oxide layer. Our key focus is on silicon surfaces, which ties back to the name of Sisu. In addition to the name of the company, our logo has also been inspired by the silicon surface atoms.

But the word Sisu has also another explanation beyond technical terms.  

The Finnish word sisu is a fascinating term that’s deeply tied to Finnish culture, and its etymology reflects both linguistic evolution and practical roots.

Sisu roughly translates to grit, resilience, or stubborn determination—think of it as the ability to push through adversity with sheer willpower. This has been shown how the SisuSemi technology has been developed through all the challenges and obstacles. And it is also shown in the stubborn determination and resilience, how we create continuous results and value to our customers.

That is SisuSemi.