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Effect of particle size distribution (PSD) and flux medium on the creep recovery performance of lead‐free solder pastes

A.E. Marks (Electronics Manufacturing Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, UK)
N.N. Ekere (Electronics Manufacturing Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, UK)
S. Mallik (Electronics Manufacturing Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, UK)
R. Bhatti (Electronics Manufacturing Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, UK)

Soldering & Surface Mount Technology

ISSN: 0954-0911

Article publication date: 12 April 2011

367

Abstract

Purpose

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The purpose of this paper is to investigate how the formulation of a solder paste (with regards to the flux and particle size distribution (PSD)), can influence its creep and recovery performance.

Design/methodology/approach

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New lead‐free paste formulations were characterised utilising viscometry and oscillatory methods, after which creep/recovery investigations were conducted to determine the recovery performance. Measurements were recorded using a rheometer with a parallel plate geometry of 40 mm and a sample height of 1 mm.

Findings

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Results from the study highlighted that the formulation of a solder paste can have a significant impact on the creep/recovery measurements. Variations in flux and PSD highlighted a considerable difference in the recoverability of the solder pastes, in one instance demonstrating more than a 20 per cent increase in structural recovery.

Research limitations/implications

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More extensive research is needed relating to reduced PSDs, such as type 6 and 7 solder pastes, to fully understand their influence on the creep/recovery performance.

Practical implications

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The results presented in this paper emphasise important information and investigational methods for research and development, and quality control.

Originality/value

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The paper highlights how the composition of new paste formulations can influence the creep/recovery behaviour. It was found that the recoverability can be increased by careful selection of the flux and PSD, which in turn could reduce slumping influences in the print process. If used as a quality control tool, this paper may allow for the reduction in print defect occurrence.

Keywords

Citation

Marks, A.E., Ekere, N.N., Mallik, S. and Bhatti, R. (2011), "Effect of particle size distribution (PSD) and flux medium on the creep recovery performance of lead‐free solder pastes", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 75-84. https://doi.org/10.1108/09540911111120140

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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