On the morning of June 14, 2025, the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials for IC Manufacturing Processes successfully held the science popularization activity themed "From Sand to Chip: Unveiling the Magical Journey of Semiconductor Manufacturing", which attracted more than 10 primary school students from grades 3 to 6 to participate. Through video lectures, laboratory tours and chemical experiment demonstrations, the children explored the mysteries of semiconductor technology up close and felt the charm of science and technology.

At the beginning of the activity, Sun Hongqi, Deputy Director of the Laboratory, led the children into the world of chips with an engaging science popularization lecture. With the help of animated videos and plain explanations, he gradually revealed the entire process of chip manufacturing, from sand to silicon wafers and then to integrated circuits. During the interactive session, the children actively raised questions, which Director Sun answered one by one. He also encouraged everyone to maintain their curiosity and enthusiasm for science. Each child was presented with a popular science comic book Understanding Chips Is Actually So Simple compiled and illustrated by the Huawei Kirin Team, helping them learn chip-related knowledge through easy and enjoyable reading.

Later, the children walked into the laboratory and experienced the micro-world of chips firsthand. In the scanning electron microscopy laboratory, researchers displayed images of chip structures magnified thousands of times. The children marveled at the delicate patterns and learned how processes such as photolithography and etching "carve" out nanoscale circuits. In the chemistry laboratory, the instantaneous color change in the titration experiment caused bursts of exclamation, and researchers took the opportunity to explain the crucial role of chemical materials in chip manufacturing.

The activity concluded successfully with the children's reluctant departure. This science popularization event not only allowed them to intuitively feel the magic of chip manufacturing, but also stimulated their interest in exploring science. Deputy Director Sun Hongqi stated that the laboratory will continue to carry out such activities, sow the seeds of science in the hearts of teenagers, and contribute to cultivating future scientific and technological talents.