Sustainable Energy and Semiconductors: A Bibliometric Investigation

Abstract

This study investigates the link between semiconductors and sustainability, focusing on their role in advancing energy sustainability from 1999 to 2023. Key research trends, collaboration patterns, and the evolving role of semiconductors in addressing energy sustainability challenges are identified. Semiconductor research significantly contributes to the United Nations’ sustainability goals, particularly in improving energy efficiency and promoting clean energy. The analysis reveals the predominance of primary research articles, highlighting the field’s interdisciplinary nature with major contributions from engineering and physics. Network visualization illustrates extensive global collaboration among institutions, with key players like the Chinese Academy of Sciences, MIT, and Stanford University. Clustering analysis identifies critical themes in semiconductor research, including manufacturing improvements, advanced materials, and sensing technologies. This study underscores the necessity for interdisciplinary and global collaboration to address sustainability challenges, paving the way for future innovations and sustainable practices in the semiconductor industry.

1. Introduction

Semiconductors are foundational to modern electronics and integral to many everyday products [1]. Their unique properties, which allow them to conduct electricity under specific conditions, have revolutionized numerous industries by enabling a wide range of advanced technologies [2]. Semiconductors are pivotal in shaping the digital landscape, powering devices from smartphones to sophisticated renewable energy systems that address the global climate crisis [3,4].

However, the rapid proliferation of semiconductor-based devices has raised significant environmental concerns, emphasizing the industry’s need to adopt more sustainable practices [5]. Semiconductors are at the core of digital advancements and are essential for operating computers, smartphones, renewable energy systems, and medical equipment [6]. Their unique properties enable the design and production of integrated circuits, transistors, and other electronic components crucial for modern electronics [3,7]. Moreover, semiconductors are instrumental in developing energy-efficient electronics, smart grid infrastructure, and renewable energy technologies [8].

Despite their transformative potential, semiconductor technologies present substantial sustainability challenges, such as the environmental impact of electronic waste and the energy-intensive nature of their manufacturing processes [9]. The industry’s exponential growth, driven by relentless miniaturization and the integration of functionalities onto single chips, has resulted in a new generation of electronic devices that are more powerful, affordable, and energy-efficient. These advancements have transformed communication, workplaces, and our interactions with the world, fundamentally altering the human experience [10].

Addressing environmental degradation is a global imperative, underscoring the need to protect a livable environment for current and future generations [11,12]. Sustainable development aims to balance economic prosperity, social equity, and ecological preservation. Central to this ethos is addressing threats such as resource scarcity, environmental degradation, and climate change, which jeopardize public health, ecosystem resilience, and food and water security [13,14]. In response, global frameworks like the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) guide humanity toward sustainability [15,16].

Technological innovation, particularly in semiconductor technology, is crucial in this pursuit. Semiconductors enable advancements in renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaics and wind turbines, and are integral to smart grid infrastructure, facilitating efficient energy management and conversion [6,17]. They are also key in modern applications like electric vehicles and LED lighting, contributing to enhanced performance and energy efficiency [18].

With a comprehensive understanding of the critical intersection between semiconductors and sustainability, stakeholders from diverse sectors are better equipped to navigate a future where semiconductors drive technological advancement and champion environmental stewardship [19]. These materials are at the vanguard of the technological revolution, catalyzing progress across numerous industries while presenting considerable environmental challenges [20]. Balancing innovation with sustainability is paramount to ensuring a resilient and eco-friendly future [21]. The rapid development and deployment of semiconductor technologies have underscored the need for sustainable practices within the industry [22]. This balance can be achieved through collaborative efforts and informed decision-making, encompassing policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and consumers [23]. The semiconductor industry can mitigate its environmental impact through interdisciplinary collaboration and robust policy frameworks, the promotion of recycling and reuse, and by driving the development of energy-efficient technologies [24]. By leveraging the full potential of semiconductors, it is possible to achieve significant advancements in renewable energy systems, smart grid infrastructure, and eco-friendly consumer electronics [25].

This study applies bibliometric analysis, providing an in-depth examination of the research trends, collaborations, and impacts within the field of semiconductor sustainability. The methodology involves extracting and analyzing bibliographic data from the Web of Science database, focusing on peer-reviewed articles, reviews, and published conference papers. To further explore these themes, the following research questions are proposed:

(1)

What are the key factors driving the shift in research focus from semiconductors’ basic properties and applications to the environmental impacts and sustainability of semiconductor manufacturing and disposal?

(2)

How have interdisciplinary collaborations between North American, European, and East Asian institutions influenced advancements in sustainable semiconductor technologies?

(3)

Which seminal works and influential publications have had the most significant impact on developing sustainable manufacturing processes and integrating semiconductors with renewable energy technologies, and what are their main contributions?

This manuscript is structured as follows. Section 2 presents a literature review summarizing the relevant literature on semiconductor technology, sustainability, and energy management. Section 3, Methodology, details the methods and approaches used for data collection and analysis, including keyword co-occurrence networks and time series visualization. Section 4 shows the results and discussion, which present the findings of the study, organized by the identified periods and thematic clusters. Section 5 summarizes the key findings, discusses limitations, and suggests directions for future research.

2. Literature Review

2.1. Overview of Existing Research on the Sustainability Aspects of Semiconductor Technologies

Amidst pressing environmental challenges, semiconductor technologies have emerged as a focal point of scholarly inquiry and industrial discourse, sparking diverse research efforts to unravel the intricate relationship between semiconductors and sustainability [26]. The academic literature has illuminated various aspects of this nexus, emphasizing semiconductors’ catalytic role in advancing sustainable energy technologies [27]. Researchers have extensively explored solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, and energy storage solutions, leveraging semiconductor innovations to enhance functionality, efficiency, and scalability in sustainable energy systems.

Concurrently, enhancing the energy efficiency of semiconductor-based technologies has garnered significant scholarly attention, leading to investigations into semiconductor materials and device architectures [6]. These studies, characterized by diverse methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches, have catalyzed environmental consciousness, driving the development of electronic products—from electric vehicles to LED lighting—that exhibit reduced energy consumption and align more closely with sustainability goals [28].

However, a complex web of sustainability challenges confronting the semiconductor industry lies beneath the surface of technological advancement. Scholars have rigorously examined the energy-intensive nature of semiconductor manufacturing processes, the depletion of finite natural resources, and the looming issue of electronic waste throughout product lifecycles [29]. With these urgent environmental concerns, researchers have explored solutions, including renewable energy integration, water conservation measures, and strategies for managing electronic waste responsibly [30].

Furthermore, a growing body of research has expanded beyond semiconductor applications in energy and environmental technologies to explore broader sustainability implications [31]. These interdisciplinary studies underscore the potential of semiconductor technologies to drive the transition to a circular economy, foster sustainable business models, and promote environmental awareness across society [32].

However, this scholarly discourse echoes a discordant note—a call for greater cohesion and synthesis in current research efforts [31,33]. Within this context, the present bibliometric study endeavors to navigate the interdisciplinary discourse, charting a course to illuminate key research trends, collaborative patterns, and emerging themes in the dynamic field of semiconductor sustainability.

2.2. Identification of Key Themes and Research Trends in This Domain

Within the labyrinth of semiconductor sustainability research, many themes and emerging trends illuminate the multifaceted nature of this domain. Foremost among these is the pivotal role of semiconductors in facilitating the development and dissemination of sustainable energy technologies, a focal point that has spurred a flurry of scholarly inquiry. Researchers have scrutinized the efficacy of semiconductor-based devices in enhancing the efficiency, accessibility, and scalability of renewable energy solutions like solar photovoltaics and wind turbines. Additionally, they have delved into integrating semiconductor technologies within smart grid infrastructure, seeking to unravel the interplay between semiconductors and sustainable energy systems [34,35,36].

Simultaneously, the energy efficiency conundrum has emerged as a focal point of investigation. Scholars are exploring semiconductor materials, device architectures, and manufacturing techniques to uncover the mechanisms underpinning significant strides in reducing the energy consumption of electronic products such as LED lighting, computer systems, and electric vehicles [6,37,38]. These technological advancements have propelled technologies toward meeting sustainability objectives and have served as potent agents in mitigating their environmental footprint, heralding a new era of eco-conscious innovation.

Amidst the sprawling landscape of semiconductor sustainability discourse, myriad challenges plaguing the semiconductor industry have been laid bare by meticulous scholarly inquiry. From the energy-intensive labyrinth of semiconductor manufacturing processes to the rapacious appetite for finite natural resources and the looming specter of electronic waste, researchers have embarked on an odyssey to unravel the intricate tapestry of sustainability issues that cloak the semiconductor industry [39]. In response to these challenges, various strategies and technologies have been scrutinized with fervent intensity. From integrating renewable energy sources and the judicious conservation of water resources to implementing robust e-waste management practices, various solutions have emerged from scholarly inquiry, each vying for prominence in the grand mosaic of semiconductor sustainability [40,41].

Beyond the immediate concerns of energy and environmental issues lies a burgeoning realm of research delving into the broader sustainability ramifications of semiconductor technologies. These investigations, championed by luminaries such as Lu, N. et al. (2023) [42], explore how semiconductors serve as catalysts for creating sustainable business models, promoting circular economic paradigms, and catalyzing social shifts towards environmental conscientiousness. The seminal works of Nosratabadi et al. (2019) [31] echo this sentiment, underscoring the potential of semiconductor-based innovations to transcend narrow technological domains and transform them into agents of holistic sustainability.

Moreover, the corpus of scholarly literature offers a window into the intricate web of collaboration and knowledge dissemination that permeates the ecosystem of semiconductor sustainability research. Through co-authorship networks, interdisciplinary partnerships, and citation analyses, researchers have endeavored to unravel the dynamics of knowledge exchange and the evolution of this field [43]. As the tapestry of semiconductor sustainability continues to unfurl, these insights serve as beacons guiding future research endeavors and illuminating the path toward a more sustainable technological future.

2.3. Gaps and Limitations in the Current Understanding of the Topic

Despite significant strides in understanding the sustainable aspects of semiconductor technologies, the scholarly landscape still includes notable gaps and deficiencies that require attention [44]. Research efforts often focus narrowly on isolated aspects, whether it is the integration of semiconductors into renewable energy systems or the complexities of sustainable semiconductor manufacturing. A more profound explanation of the intricate relationship between semiconductors and sustainability demands a paradigm shift toward comprehensive, multidisciplinary investigations [31]. This approach necessitates integrating perspectives from diverse fields, such as materials science, engineering, environmental science, and sustainability studies.

Furthermore, there is a concerning tendency among researchers to overlook broader sustainability implications associated with semiconductor technologies [45,46]. Many studies exhibit a myopic view, failing to consider the entire environmental lifecycle—from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal and recycling [47]. Adopting a more holistic approach is essential, one that encompasses the full spectrum of environmental impacts and sustainability challenges posed by semiconductor production and use. This shift towards comprehensive research frameworks will be crucial in addressing the current gaps and advancing sustainable practices within the semiconductor industry [48].

In the relentless pursuit of aligning semiconductor technologies with sustainability imperatives, empirical research remains a glaring gap awaiting illumination. While invaluable, conceptual musings and theoretical treatises only scratch the surface of the myriad of real-world challenges and opportunities that punctuate the landscape of semiconductor sustainability [49]. Only through empirical inquiry, field investigations, symbiotic collaborations with industry, and rigorous technological evaluations can the full tapestry of semiconductor sustainability be unveiled, revealing its complexities and offering pragmatic pathways for stakeholders poised on the brink of sustainability enlightenment.

The vast majority of the existing literature has been preoccupied with the present situation, ignoring the allure of long-term trends or the captivating narrative of historical development in semiconductor sustainability. However, the dynamic relationship between semiconductors and sustainability is most clearly revealed through time, beckoning scholars to embark on journeys of trend-based studies and longitudinal analyses. Novel motifs emerge from these chronicles, inviting researchers to reorient their focus, realign their trajectories, and chart new paths to the shores of enlightenment [31]. This symphony of perspectives holds the promise of innovation, the allure of novelty, and the prospect of discovering solutions that transcend traditional boundaries and herald the dawn of a new era in semiconductor sustainability [50].

3. Methodology

3.1. Data Collection

This study employs a bibliometric analysis to systematically evaluate the evolution, collaborative dynamics, and scholarly impact within the field of semiconductor sustainability. The analysis spans scholarly publications from 1990 to 2023, a period characterized by significant advancements in semiconductor technologies and a growing global emphasis on sustainability. The research data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The search query and parameters are shown in Figure 1.

Data collection involved a structured search strategy designed to retrieve relevant scholarly publications exploring the intersection of semiconductors with sustainability-related topics such as clean energy, renewable energy, the circular economy, and environmental impact. Search terms included variations of “semiconductor,” “micro-chip,” “integrated circuit,” and specific sustainability-related terms. The inclusion criteria were limited to peer-reviewed articles, reviews, conference papers, etc., to ensure the reliability and scholarly rigor of the data. Publications were further restricted to those available in English to facilitate coherence and accessibility [31].

Bibliographic data, comprising titles, abstracts, author affiliations, citations, and keywords, were extracted from the Web of Science database in a standardized format (e.g., CSV or RIS). The extracted data underwent rigorous analysis using bibliometric software tools such as VOSviewer version 1.6.20. This software facilitated the visualization and quantitative analysis of citation networks, collaborative patterns among researchers and institutions, and the identification of emerging themes in semiconductor sustainability research.

The methodological approach provides a robust framework for comprehensively understanding the evolution and impact of research on semiconductor sustainability. This study contributes valuable insights that can inform future research directions and strategic initiatives in sustainable semiconductor technologies by uncovering key trends, influential publications, and collaborative networks.

3.2. Bibliometric Methodology

This study employed bibliometric analysis to explore the scholarly literature on the role of semiconductors in sustainable energy transitions. While traditionally focused on technical parameters, bibliometric analysis provides valuable insights into broader research trends and collaborative networks within this interdisciplinary field [50].

Bibliographic data were sourced from the Web of Science database and imported into VOSviewer for analysis [51]. The initial stage involved thorough data preprocessing to eliminate duplicates and irrelevant records, ensuring the integrity of the dataset for subsequent analyses.

The Co-authorship networks revealed collaboration patterns among researchers, highlighting the number of publications, citation metrics, and the strength of co-authorship connections [52,53]. Researchers were used as the unit of analysis. We denote by N and M the respective number of researchers and publications included in the analysis, and use A = [a_ik] to represent the N × M authorship matrix. The element a_ik of this matrix equals 1 if researcher i is an author of publication k, and 0 otherwise. We continue by using n_k to denote the number of authors of publication k, defined as

$${\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{k}}={\sum }_{\mathrm{i}=1}^{\mathrm{n}}{\mathrm{a}}_{\mathrm{i}\mathrm{k}}$$

(1)

Publications with only one author do not provide any co-authorship links. Therefore, for simplicity, we assume that each publication included in the analysis has at least two authors (i.e., n_k > 1 for every publication k). First, we consider the case of full counting. We use U = [u_ij] to denote the entire co-authorship matrix, which is an N × N symmetric matrix. The element u_ij of this matrix represents the total number of full co-authorship links between researchers i and j, given by

$${\mathrm{u}}_{\mathrm{i}\mathrm{j}}={\sum }_{\mathrm{k}=1}^{\mathrm{M}}{\mathrm{a}}_{\mathrm{i}\mathrm{k}}{\mathrm{a}}_{\mathrm{j}\mathrm{k}}$$

(2)

Co-citation analysis identified influential publications and mapped knowledge flows between different research contributions, aiding in understanding the intellectual structure of semiconductor sustainability research [54,55]. Small (1973) and Edge (1979) assert that the degree of relationship or linkage between papers, as recognized by the set of citing authors, can be measured by the intensity of co-citation [56]. Garfield (1980) [57] explains that the intensity of co-citation (or the percentage of overlap) can be calculated using the following formula:

$$S={\displaystyle \frac{co-citationsofA+B}{\left(totalcitationsA+B\right)-\left(co-citationsofA+B\right)}}$$

(3)

where A and B are documents; S means Link Strength

Additionally, a keyword co-occurrence network was generated to uncover major themes and topics investigated in the literature, where node size represented keyword frequency and positioning indicated relatedness [49,50]. VOSviewer’s Thematic Clustering algorithm grouped related keywords into thematic clusters, providing insights into dominant research themes and their evolution over time [6,57]. Finally, Temporal Analysis was conducted to identify trends in publication volume, citation patterns, and the emergence of new research themes over the study period, offering a dynamic view of the field’s progression [58,59,60].

By combining these bibliometric analyses with an extensive literature review, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the current research on semiconductors and their sustainability implications in energy transitions. This holistic approach bridges the gap between semiconductor technology and sustainability, revealing opportunities and challenges in this rapidly evolving field. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing the sustainability aspects of semiconductor technologies.

4. Results and Discussion

4.1. Temporal Evolution of Publications

The analysis conducted from 1999 to 2023 unveils distinct patterns in publication counts, offering insights into the evolving landscape of semiconductor research within sustainable energy transitions (see Figure 2). The observed patterns not only reflect increasing scholarly engagement over time but also signify a growing consensus on the critical role of semiconductors in achieving sustainable energy solutions. In the initial decades (1999–2009), there was a gradual increase in publications, with a notable peak in 2008, signaling an emerging interest in semiconductor applications for sustainability. Subsequent years (2010–2015) saw a significant uptick in research activity, underscoring a growing recognition of semiconductors’ pivotal role in sustainable energy solutions.

From 2016 onwards, robust publication counts continued, with notable peaks observed in 2020 and 2021. These peaks suggest periods of intensified research activity, likely driven by significant advancements or seminal contributions in the field. Despite minor fluctuations, the overall research activity remained elevated, indicating sustained interest and investment in semiconductor technologies for sustainable energy applications.

The distribution of publications across the timeline remained relatively stable, reflecting a consistent commitment to advancing semiconductor technologies within the context of sustainability. Prominent years such as 2020 and 2021, marked by high publication counts, highlight pivotal moments in the field, likely corresponding to breakthroughs or heightened scholarly attention.

This study highlights the variety and activity in research on semiconductors and sustainable energy transitions, showing the strong involvement of scholars in this field. Most of the documents analyzed are articles, making up 65.10% of the total publications (Figure 3). This indicates that original research is key to progress in this area. Conference proceedings are also important, comprising 28.56% of the publications, and play a crucial role in sharing knowledge and fostering academic discussions through conferences and symposia. Review articles, accounting for 11.02% of the literature, are crucial in synthesizing existing research and guiding future investigative paths. Other document classifications, such as book chapters, editorial materials, and meeting abstracts, contribute to smaller proportions. However, their collective presence enriches scholarly discourse by offering diverse perspectives and formats.

The analysis depicted in Figure 4 reveals a diverse and multidisciplinary landscape within semiconductors and sustainable energy transitions, reflecting contributions from various academic disciplines. Engineering emerges as the predominant research area, with 1538 publications accounting for 35.684% of the total. It highlights the essential role of engineering principles in advancing semiconductor technologies for sustainable energy applications.

Following closely, physics contributes significantly with 1377 publications, representing 31.949% of the literature. This emphasizes the foundational understanding of physical phenomena crucial for semiconductor behavior and energy conversion processes.

Materials Science and Chemistry also play substantial roles, with 1189 and 1185 publications comprising 27.587% and 27.494% of the total. These disciplines provide critical insights into developing novel materials and fabrication techniques that enhance semiconductor performance and efficiency in energy applications.

Additionally, Science Technology, Optics, and Computer Science demonstrate notable presence with 717, 337, and 302 publications, respectively, accounting for 16.636%, 7.819%, and 7.007% of the total. Their contributions span theoretical modeling, simulation, and practical implementation of semiconductor-based systems.

Other research areas, such as Energy Fuels, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Electrochemistry, and Nuclear Science Technology also contribute significantly to the collective scholarly discourse, which comprises a substantial portion of the literature. These findings underscore the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of research efforts addressing the complex challenges at the intersection of semiconductor technology and sustainable energy.

4.2. Sustainable Development Goals’ Implications

The analysis of sustainable development goals (SDGs) within semiconductor research offers valuable insights into how scholarly work aligns with global sustainability priorities, as depicted in Figure 5. Affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) emerges as the primary focus, with 825 publications representing 19.142%. This underscores the research community’s significant efforts to leverage semiconductor technologies for sustainable energy solutions, enhancing energy access, affordability, and environmental impact. Semiconductor research enhances energy efficiency and renewable energy. Advances in materials like silicon and gallium nitride improve solar panels and LED lighting, reducing energy consumption [61].

Following closely, Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6) is another prominent area, with 586 publications (13.596%), highlighting semiconductor applications in water purification and sanitation to address water scarcity and improve access to clean water. Semiconductors are used in water purification and environmental monitoring. For instance, titanium dioxide aids in photocatalytic water treatment, and semiconductor sensors monitor water quality [62].

Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) is also a key focus, with 532 publications (12.343%). Research in this domain encompasses semiconductor applications in medical devices, diagnostics, and healthcare technologies aimed at improving health outcomes. Semiconductor technologies support medical diagnostics and health monitoring. They are crucial in imaging devices (X-rays, MRI) and wearable health monitors, improving patient care and preventive health [63].

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9) and responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) also feature prominently, with 366 and 291 publications, respectively. Semiconductor research significantly contributes to sustainable manufacturing by advancing technologies that improve efficiency and reduce waste, aligning with Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9) [64]. Innovations such as energy-efficient semiconductor devices and optimized manufacturing processes support more responsible consumption and production practices (SDG 12) [65]. These SDGs underscore the importance of technological innovation and sustainable manufacturing practices within semiconductor research, fostering Economic Growth, innovation, and resource efficiency.

While Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) and Climate Action (SDG 13) show lower representation in the literature, their inclusion highlights semiconductor research’s interdisciplinary nature and potential contributions to urban sustainability and climate resilience. The relatively lower representation of Quality Education (SDG 4) and Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) points to opportunities for increased collaboration between semiconductor researchers and stakeholders. For Education (SDG 4), advancements in semiconductor technologies enable the development of innovative educational tools and platforms, such as high-performance computers and interactive digital learning systems, which enhance learning experiences and accessibility [66]. Regarding Economic Growth (SDG 8), semiconductor innovations drive technological advancements that fuel new industries and job creation. For instance, improvements in semiconductor efficiency lead to the development of cutting-edge electronics, supporting growth in sectors like consumer electronics, telecommunications, and automotive industries [67]. These technologies not only bolster economic development but also enhance productivity and competitiveness in various sectors. Addressing these socio-economic challenges through educational and employment initiatives could further enhance the impact of semiconductor technologies.

Figure 6 analyzes research publications by country in semiconductor sustainability, highlighting the top 20 countries with the highest productivity. The USA leads with 1236 publications, showing its strong focus on technological advancements in semiconductor research. China follows with 945 publications, indicating its substantial investment in this field. Germany (322 publications), Japan (275), and South Korea (256) are also key contributors. Taiwan, with 223 publications, and India, with 208, are emerging as significant players. France (197), England (169), and Italy (135) reflect notable contributions from Europe. Russia (106) and Spain (101) also show growing interest in this area. Australia (91) and Canada (84) actively engage in semiconductor sustainability research. Saudi Arabia (74), Singapore (67), and Malaysia (65) contribute to the global research landscape. The Netherlands (64), Switzerland (63), and Brazil (62) are emerging participants in this field.

4.3. Interdisciplinary Collaborations in Semiconductor Research

The network visualization presented in Figure 7 provides a detailed overview of the complex web of interdisciplinary collaborations among various global institutes and universities, emphasizing the semiconductor industry’s role in advancing energy sustainability. This analysis aims to dissect these collaborative trends and their implementations, highlighting the critical contributions of academia and industry to promoting sustainable technologies. The visualization identifies key institutions as central nodes within the network, indicating their significant influence and contribution to semiconductor research. Prominent institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), MIT, and Stanford University are featured. These institutions produce substantial research output and facilitate numerous collaborations, serving as hubs for knowledge and innovation transfer. For example, CAS has been instrumental in advancing semiconductor technologies, particularly in developing new materials like silicon carbide and gallium nitride. Their work often focuses on enhancing the efficiency and durability of semiconductor devices used in renewable energy applications [68,69]. MIT has contributed significantly to semiconductor research by exploring novel semiconductor materials and their applications in energy-efficient technologies. Projects at MIT often involve interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating insights from materials science, electrical engineering, and computer science [70,71]. Stanford’s research on semiconductors includes significant advancements in nanotechnology and quantum computing. Their work has led to developing cutting-edge semiconductor devices that promise greater energy efficiency and performance [72,73]. Collaboration across different fields, such as materials science, engineering, and environmental science, is prevalent. This interdisciplinary approach is essential for addressing the complex challenges at the intersection of semiconductor technology and sustainability. Leading institutions often serve as central nodes in collaborative networks, facilitating numerous joint research projects and publications. These institutions are pivotal in driving the research agenda on semiconductors and sustainability.

The network includes various geographic locations and institution types, such as universities, national laboratories, and corporate research centers. This diversity fosters innovative solutions by integrating various perspectives and expertise. The global representation emphasizes the importance of improving energy efficiency and sustainability in semiconductor technologies [74]. Notably, industry–academia linkages, including major corporations like Intel Corp, are key in translating research into practical, commercially viable technologies.

These collaborations are crucial for addressing global environmental challenges, as semiconductor technologies are vital for renewable energy systems, energy-efficient computing, and electric vehicles. Improving these technologies’ energy efficiency can significantly reduce carbon emissions and environmental impacts [75]. However, challenges persist in ensuring equitable collaboration across regions and balancing commercial and academic interests. Expanding collaborations to include emerging economies is also important [76].

This analysis suggests that policymakers should support these cross-disciplinary efforts through funding and international partnerships, aligning semiconductor research with global sustainability goals. The network diagram illustrates the complex landscape of collaborations driving advancements in semiconductor energy sustainability. Continued support for diverse, cross-disciplinary linkages will help address energy efficiency and environmental sustainability challenges, accelerating technological innovation and aligning it with societal needs.

4.4. Research Trends and Potential Future Research Directions

The analysis of keyword clusters in the semiconductor industry, particularly concerning sustainability and energy management, offers detailed insights into diverse research areas, as depicted in Figure 8. Keyword extracts are from bibliographic records or research articles. This involves identifying and listing keywords used in the literature. This study analyzes how often pairs of keywords appear together in the same documents. This co-occurrence data are used to determine the strength of relationships between keywords. The application of clustering algorithms to group keywords based on their co-occurrence data is shown [51]. The algorithm groups keywords that frequently appear together into clusters. Each cluster is assigned a color and is represents a specific thematic area or research focus. Each cluster identifies specific thematic focuses, revealing critical aspects of academic study and technological progress [58].

This research identifies multiple thematic clusters in semiconductor research. The Yellow Cluster emphasizes semiconductor manufacturing and industry operations, with keywords like semiconductor manufacturing, supply chain management, and power semiconductor devices. This cluster underscores the importance of optimizing manufacturing processes and supply chains to boost efficiency and reduce energy use. The integration of machine learning signals a growing trend in leveraging advanced analytics to optimize semiconductor manufacturing. Future studies are likely to explore AI and machine learning further to enhance manufacturing processes [57]. ML models predict and prevent equipment failures, thus minimizing downtime and energy consumption [77]. They also analyze energy patterns for better management. However, challenges include high implementation costs, data privacy concerns, and the need for specialized expertise. Poor data quality can lead to inaccurate predictions, affecting the effectiveness of ML applications [78].

In contrast, the Red Cluster highlights Materials and Chemical Processes in Semiconductors, featuring terms such as silicon, silicon carbide, and gallium nitride. This cluster explores semiconductor material properties and manipulation techniques crucial for developing energy-efficient devices. Terms like photocatalysts and thin films underscore efforts to research materials suitable for renewable energy applications, especially in solar photovoltaics and energy-efficient lighting technologies, aligning with sustainability goals [56]. Future research is expected to delve into new materials and their applications in sustainable energy technologies.

The Green Cluster focuses on Energy Applications and Environmental Impact, emphasizing the role of semiconductor technologies in promoting sustainable energy solutions. Keywords such as solar cells and photocatalysis reflect efforts to harness renewable energy sources and minimize environmental impacts. Advances in nanostructures and titanium dioxide indicate improvements in energy conversion efficiency and device durability [79]. Future research aims to enhance these materials and technologies to further sustainability objectives.

Meanwhile, the Blue Cluster explores Advanced Technologies and Analytical Techniques, featuring keywords like microchip and life cycle assessment. This cluster highlights the use of advanced analytical methods to comprehensively evaluate the environmental impacts of semiconductor technologies. The integration of life cycle assessment and microfluidic approaches suggests future research directions aimed at developing sustainable semiconductor devices and processes [80], aligning with the industry goals of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. The Purple Cluster focuses on Sensing and Interface Technologies, emphasizing advancements in sensor technology and interface engineering. Keywords such as gas sensors and quantum dots indicate research efforts to enhance semiconductor functionality for energy management and environmental monitoring applications. The development of sophisticated sensor technologies and interfaces will be crucial for improving energy efficiency and resource management across various domains [81].

Based on the analysis of keyword co-occurrence networks and time series visualizations, trends and focal points within the semiconductor industry regarding sustainability and energy management across various periods were examined (Figure 9).

4.4.1. 2010–2012: Foundations in Semiconductor Materials

From 2010 to 2012, academic research primarily focused on understanding the fundamental properties of semiconductor materials. Key terms such as “nanostructures”, “quantum dots”, “graphene”, “2D materials”, and “optical properties” underscored efforts to explore nanomaterials and low-dimensional structures crucial for semiconductor technology [82,83]. Although sustainability considerations were not explicitly highlighted, this foundational research laid essential groundwork for future advancements to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly semiconductor devices [84,85,86].

4.4.2. 2012–2014: Shift to Energy Conversion and Environmental Applications

During this period, semiconductor research increasingly focused on materials and processes tailored for energy conversion and environmental applications. Keywords such as “photocatalysis”, “hydrogen”, “energy conversion”, “catalysis”, and “environmental remediation” indicated a significant shift towards utilizing semiconductor-based materials for sustainable energy generation and environmental cleanup [87]. This period was marked by a pivotal transition, addressing sustainability challenges and advancing energy management practices within the semiconductor industry [88,89,90].

4.4.3. 2014–2016: Focus on Manufacturing Processes and Industry

Research between 2014 and 2016 centered on optimizing manufacturing processes and addressing industry-specific challenges. Keywords such as “semiconductor manufacturing”, “semiconductor fabrication”, “integrated circuits”, and “capacity planning” highlighted efforts to enhance production efficiency and scale-up manufacturing capabilities [91,92]. While sustainability concerns were not explicitly at the forefront, improvements in manufacturing processes contributed to energy efficiency and resource conservation, laying critical groundwork for broader sustainability initiatives [93,94].

4.4.4. 2016–2018: Exploration of Sensing and Monitoring Technologies

From 2016 to 2018, sensing and monitoring technologies were explored in se technology research. Keywords like “gas sensor”, “gas sensing”, “environmental monitoring”, and “silicon photonics” reflected a growing interest in developing semiconductor-based sensing devices and integrated photonic circuits [95,96]. This research aimed to advance environmental monitoring capabilities and pollutant detection and promote sustainable and energy-efficient practices across industrial sectors, including semiconductor manufacturing [97].

4.4.5. 2018–2023: Diverse Semiconductor Research and Applications

Since 2018, semiconductor research has diversified into various topics. Keywords such as “semiconductor laser”, “simulation”, “scheduling”, “amperometric detection”, and “data envelopment analysis” represent advancements in semiconductor laser technology, simulation methodologies, manufacturing scheduling techniques, sensor applications, and data analysis methods [98,99,100]. While not explicitly tied to sustainability, these developments strive to enhance efficiency, optimization, and data-driven approaches in semiconductor manufacturing and energy management. They support integrating semiconductor technologies into diverse industrial applications, contributing to the industry’s sustainability agenda [49,101].

5. Conclusions

5.1. Key Findings and Significance

This study explores the relationship between semiconductors and sustainability, focusing on their role in advancing energy sustainability. By analyzing data from 1999 to 2023, we identify key research trends, collaboration patterns, and the evolving impact of semiconductors on addressing energy sustainability challenges. These insights are valuable for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers, guiding the development of more sustainable semiconductor technologies and practices, particularly in energy efficiency and renewable energy applications.

The research landscape is multidisciplinary, with significant contributions from engineering, physics, materials science, and chemistry. Interdisciplinary efforts in science technology, optics, and computer science are evident, reflecting collaborative endeavors in semiconductor research for sustainable energy transitions. Contributions from energy fuels, environmental sciences, electrochemistry, and nuclear science highlight the collective effort toward achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Network visualization demonstrates extensive cross-disciplinary collaborations among global institutes and universities focused on semiconductor-driven energy sustainability. Key institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences, MIT, and Stanford University are central hubs, fostering collaborative research and knowledge exchange.

Clustering analysis of semiconductor industry keywords reveals distinct thematic areas: semiconductor manufacturing and Operations, Materials and Chemical Processes, Energy Applications and Environmental Impact, Advanced Technologies and Analytical Techniques, and Sensing and Interface Technologies. These themes highlight the necessity for interdisciplinary and global collaboration to address diverse sustainability challenges and pave the way for future innovations and more sustainable practices in the semiconductor industry.

5.2. Limitations and Future Research Opportunities

This bibliometric analysis has inherent limitations. Firstly, the scope is restricted to publications indexed in a specific database, potentially excluding relevant the gray literature. The timeframe (1999–2023) might miss earlier works or recent breakthroughs. Geographic bias may also exist, with the overrepresentation of regions with higher research output, neglecting contributions from emerging economies.

Our focus on articles, proceedings, papers, and reviews also limits the perspective. Other document types, such as patents or technical reports, could provide crucial insights into technological advancements and industrial applications related to sustainable semiconductors. Based on predefined keywords, the clustering analysis might miss emerging research areas or interdisciplinary intersections that have yet to be reflected in established terminology.

Future research could expand this study through longitudinal analyses beyond 2023 to capture ongoing developments, comparative studies across different databases or fields for a holistic understanding, and qualitative methodologies like interviews or surveys for deeper insights. Investigating specific regions or countries could reveal disparities and opportunities for collaboration. Emerging technologies like quantum computing and their implications for sustainable semiconductors and policy analyses could further illuminate the drivers of semiconductor research toward sustainability goals. Understanding these drivers can inform interventions to advance environmentally responsible semiconductor technologies.