A review of non-hermetic optoelectronic packaging

Abstract

This paper is a summary of a literature survey done on nonhermetic optoelectronic packages focusing on the cost and reliability aspects. The development of reliable non-hermetic lasers would not only lead to the elimination of the costs specifically associated with hermetic packaging but also lead the way for possible revolutionary low-cost optoelectronic packaging technologies. The paper starts with an introduction to the concept of hermeticity in optoelectronic packages, followed by a detailed review of the reliability issues and failure mechanisms observed in non-hermetic packages when compared to their hermetic counter parts. A hermetic seal in electronic packages is used to prevent the entry of air, foreign gases, contaminants, and most importantly moisture. To seal a package hermetically is particularly challenging and expensive. There are various techniques that have been investigated, to improve the reliability of non-hermetic packages. A few are discussed here such as facet passivation type, choosing a better optical glass and encapsulation techniques. Also accelerated testing is discussed. Some of the most common and important failure mechanisms like popcorn failure, adhesive degradation, laser misalignment and epoxy swelling are discussed.

Harnessing optical advantages in computing: a review of current and future trends

“…For instance, using proper packaging techniques helps protect optical components from environmental factors. Sealing optical components in hermetic packages or using protective coatings can shield them from temperature and humidity fluctuations, thereby preserving signal integrity [24,25]. For instance, hydrophobic and anti-reflective Frontiers in Physics frontiersin.org coatings can prevent moisture absorption and minimize signal degradation caused by environmental factors [26].…”

Non‐hermetic packaging of biomedical microsystems from a materials perspective: A review

“…In some cases, however, there is risk of electrochemical corrosion on the metallic surfaces because of the presence of various ions, amino acids, proteins and dissolved oxygen (Eliaz, 2019). Hermeticity is defined as the ability of sealed packages to resist foreign gases and liquids from penetrating the seal or encapsulating material (Madduri, Sammakia, Infantolino, & Chaparala, 2008). Hermetic packages are conventionally made from glass, metal or ceramic materials whereby the gas and moisture permeability through the material is negligible (Madduri et al, 2008; Schuettler, Schatz, Ordonez, & Stieglitz, 2011).…”

“…Hermeticity is defined as the ability of sealed packages to resist foreign gases and liquids from penetrating the seal or encapsulating material (Madduri, Sammakia, Infantolino, & Chaparala, 2008). Hermetic packages are conventionally made from glass, metal or ceramic materials whereby the gas and moisture permeability through the material is negligible (Madduri et al, 2008; Schuettler, Schatz, Ordonez, & Stieglitz, 2011). Hermetic materials have been successfully used to package devices for chronic applications, some of the most notable being cochlear implants and cardiac pacemakers (Kirsten, Wetterling, Uhlemann, Wolter, & Zigler, 2013).…”