New studies will uncover mechanisms of protection for electronic conformal coatings

Citation

(2004), "New studies will uncover mechanisms of protection for electronic conformal coatings", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 16 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ssmt.2004.21916aab.010

New studies will uncover mechanisms of protection for electronic conformal coatings

New studies will uncover mechanisms of protection for electronic conformal coatings

Keywords: Coatings, Electronics

A new project is to be funded by the UK’s Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to improve understanding of the protection mechanisms of encapsulants and conformal coatings for electronic protection. Common misconceptions that moisture exclusion is a key role of conformal coatings have already been found by NPL’s investigations, and the need to understand the better methods of electronic protection are growing as electronics find increasing application in harsh and exotic environments from automotive to medical, and drilling to aviation.

Techniques focused on changes in coating mass, permeability and insulation properties will be used whilst assemblies are exposed to heat, moisture and aggressive agents representative of end-use conditions.

The lifetime of electronic assemblies is critically dependent on the performance of encapsulants used and thus increasing electronic product lifetime. If you specify coating protection for your product, or are considering the need then this work is vital to avoid assumptions often made when specifying materials (epoxies, silicones, urethanes, acrylics) or deciding if coating is required.

To involve in shaping the project or to keep in touch with progress contact: Alan Brewin, National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, UK. E-mail: Alan.brewin@npl.co.uk; Web site: www.npl.co.uk/ei