Effect of Ag content on the microstructure of Sn‐Ag‐Cu based solder alloys
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the microstructure and evaluate the intermetallic compounds in the following lead‐free solder alloys: Sn98.5Ag1.0Cu0.5 (SAC105) Sn97.5Ag2.0Cu0.5 (SAC205) Sn96.5Ag3.0Cu0.5 (SAC305) and Sn95.5Ag4.0Cu0.5 (SAC405).
Design/methodology/approach
X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to identify the main intermetallics formed during solidification. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to investigate the undercooling properties of each of the alloys.
Findings
By using XRD analysis in addition to energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) it was found that the main intermetallics were Cu6Sn5 and Ag3Sn in a Sn matrix. Plate‐like ε‐Ag3Sn intermetallics were observed for all four alloys. Solder alloys SAC105, SAC205 and SAC305 showed a similar microstructure, while SAC405 displayed a fine microstructure with intermetallic phases dense within the Sn matrix.
Originality/value
Currently, low‐silver content SAC alloys are being investigated due to their lower cost, however, the overall reliability of an alloy can be greatly affected by the microstructure and this should be taken into consideration when choosing an alloy. The size and number of Ag3Sn plate‐like intermetallics can affect the reliability as they act as a site for crack propagation.
Keywords
Citation
Reid, M., Punch, J., Collins, M. and Ryan, C. (2008), "Effect of Ag content on the microstructure of Sn‐Ag‐Cu based solder alloys", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 3-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/09540910810902651
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Related articles
- SAJGBR on the move: contribution, context and qualityShaista E. Khilji, South Asian Journal of Global Business Research, 2013
- Editor's perspective: Published South Asian research: current standing and future directionsShaista E. Khilji, South Asian Journal of Global Business Research, 2012
- SAJGBR mission and coverageSouth Asian Journal of Global Business Research, 2012
- Asia’s Entrepreneurs: Dilemmas, Risks and Opportunities
Feenstra, Daniela, The Journal of Applied Management and Entrepreneurship, 2014
- The Political (New) Economy of Sustainable Development in Asia
Ahlering, Beth, Greener Management International, 2000
- Creating a conducive environment for SMEs in Sri Lanka
P Pretheeba, Wayamba Journal of Management, 2014