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Future trends in materials for lightweight microwave packaging

David M. Jacobson (Matra Marconi Space UK Ltd, Stevenage, UK)
Satti P.S. Sangha (Matra Marconi Space UK Ltd, Stevenage, UK)

Microelectronics International

ISSN: 1356-5362

Article publication date: 1 December 1998

886

Abstract

The set of properties required for microwave packaging materials intended for aerospace applications is discussed in relation to the current range of materials that are commercially available. Initiatives are being taken to replace kovar, the established packaging material, with substitutes which are lighter, stiffer and offer superior heat‐sinking. Promising in this regard are new family of beryllium‐beryllia and also silicon‐aluminium (Si‐Al) alloys high in silicon, with ratios of constituents chosen such that they optimally complement gallium arsenide MMIC devices and alumina circuit boards. Both types of material are relatively easy to machine and electroplate. Demonstrator microwave amplifier modules incorporating the Si‐Al alloys have been designed for space applications and have been successfully produced and tested. The manufacturing technology that has been developed for this purpose is described.

Keywords

Citation

Jacobson, D.M. and Sangha, S.P.S. (1998), "Future trends in materials for lightweight microwave packaging", Microelectronics International, Vol. 15 No. 3, pp. 17-21. https://doi.org/10.1108/13565369810233104

Publisher

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MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 1998, Company

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