Thermal and mechanical analysis of low-temperature and low-pressure silver-based sintered thermal joints

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to perform thermal and mechanical characterization for silver-based sintered thermal joints. Layer quality affects thermal and mechanical performance, and it is important to achieve information about how materials and process parameters influence them. Design/methodology/approach Thermal investigation of the thermal joints analysis method was focused on determination of thermal resistance, where temperature measurements were performed using infrared camera. They were performed in two modes: steady-state analysis and dynamic analysis. Mechanical analysis based on measurements of mechanical shear force. Additional characterizations based on X-ray image analysis (image thresholding), optical microscope of polished cross-section and scanning electron microscope image analysis were proposed. Findings Sample surface modification affects thermal resistance. Silver metallization exhibits the lowest thermal resistance and the highest mechanical strength compared to the pure Si surface. The type of dynamic analysis affects the results of the thermal resistance. Originality/value Investigation of the layer quality influence on mechanical and thermal performance provided information about different joint types.