Identification of Electronic Components Susceptible to Deterioration by Atmospheric Corrosion

Abstract

Electronic components are often susceptible to deterioration by environmental effects. Several studies have been reported on atmospheric corrosion of electronic devices with focus on functionality, storage capacity, and their miniaturization. However, there is a lack of studies focused on identifying the components most susceptible to atmospheric corrosion, the corrosion products generated in them, and the possible variables that have a greater impact on deterioration. The present study is focused on linking the deterioration of electronic boards with temperature and humidity cycles. This was accomplished through accelerated tests inside an atmospheric chamber, where the concentrations of pollutant gases (NO₂ and SO₂) are kept constant. Each trapezoidal cycle within the accelerated tests equals one day of field exposure. The results show that the NO₂ and SO₂ gasses reduced the life of the electronic components by 49.8%. The SO₂ gas was found to be the contaminant gas that most influenced the deterioration of electronic devices. Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) show the formation of CuSO₄. The development of protective coating against these pollutant gasses could improve the operation of electronic components.