Design

Electrically conductive adhesive: the solution for high-performance electronics

25th April 2023
Sheryl Miles
0

Electrically conductive adhesive (ECA) is a revolutionary material that is changing the game for electronic devices.

This adhesive offers numerous benefits and uses them make it an essential component in high-performance electronics.

Unlike traditional soldering, ECAs contain conductive particles which allow for electrical conductivity between two substrates. This means that it can be used to bond components in a range of electronics applications, including in the automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer electronics industries.

One of the key benefits of ECA is its ability to provide a more reliable and robust bond than traditional soldering. Unlike solder, ECAs can absorb thermal and mechanical stress, which reduces the risk of failure due to stress fractures. Additionally, ECAs offer superior thermal management, which is particularly important in high-temperature environments, as they can dissipate heat more effectively than traditional adhesives.

Another significant advantage of ECAs is their ability to bond dissimilar materials. Soldering, on the other hand, is limited to bonding similar materials. This makes ECA an solution for bonding components in electronics that are made of different materials.

In addition to its most common use in attaching conductive elastomer gaskets for EMI shielding to a mounting surface, these adhesives are used to cold bond components that are sensitive to heat such as LEDs, LCDs, and touch panels.

To help minimise galvanic reactions between dissimilar metals, these one-part, silicone-based adhesives are available with five conductive filler options, including: silver plated glass, silver plated  copper, silver plated aluminium, nickel plated graphite, or pure silver. 

ECAs are also eco-friendly, as they do not contain lead or other harmful substances commonly found in traditional soldering materials. This makes them an attractive option for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact and comply with regulations.

Overall, the benefits and uses of electrically conductive adhesive are vast, and it is clear that it is an alternative to traditional soldering. Companies that are looking to improve the performance and reliability of their electronic devices should consider incorporating ECA into their manufacturing processes.

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