NPL has been using this expertise in the area of studying the allotropic phase transformation in tin and its alloys, commonly known as tin pest, to measure the implications of adopting lead free solder manufacturing practices. Our new measurement system for tin whiskers is ready for industry to use and our research into tin pest is to receive significant funding from the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR). As this is of such high importance to industry we are also seeking equivalent funding from fifteen industrial partners who are keen to use the results to give their business a competitive edge.
Tin pest, or the allotropic phase transformation in tin and its alloys, can decompose tin into powder at low temperatures. Tin pest was thought to be a problem of the past as tin lead alloys did not suffer the same effect. Yet the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) bans most uses of lead and the problem has returned as lead-free alloys contain 95% to 99% tin. Tin pest could dangerously affect the safety and functionality of electronic products used across many manufacturing sectors, such as the avionics industry.
RoHS has also seen electronics component manufacturers moving to pure tin component termination finishes. These are prone to the spontaneous growth of "tin whiskers", which can cause catastrophic failures in electronic circuits. Reported failures include the loss of at least two communications satellites and the unplanned shut down of a nuclear reactor. It has been suggested that conformal coatings (materials applied in thin layers, often by dipping, spraying or flow coating) can be used to inhibit whisker growth.
NPL has developed a new measurement system and test method to assess the ability of different conformal coatings to stop or slow down tin whisker growth. The method also can help conformal coating developers to modify their coatings to inhibit whisker initiation, growth and penetration for electronic circuits.
Dr Chris Hunt from NPL said:
"NPL's heritage and expertise in highly accurate measurement is essential in analysing what could be very damaging problems for the electronics industry. Our new measurement system for tin whiskers is ready for industry to use and our research into tin pest has just received significant funding As this is of such high importance to industry we are seeking equivalent funding from fifteen industrial partners who are keen to use the results to give their business a competitive edge."
Notes to Editors
Tin pest collaboration
The commitment from each of the industrial partners is two payments of £2,600 for a 14 month project. For further details and to participate in this project and benefit from the results of this unique research project please contact:
Dr. Chris Hunt chris.hunt@npl.co.uk, Tel: 0208 943 7027
National Physical Laboratory
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is one of the UK's leading science facilities and research centres. It is a world-leading centre of excellence in developing and applying the most accurate standards, science and technology available.
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• NPL provides companies with access to world leading support and technical expertise, inspiring the absolute confidence required to realise competitive advantage from new materials, techniques and technologies • NPL expertise and services are crucial in a wide range of social applications - helping to save lives, protect the environment and enable citizens to feel safe and secure. Support in areas such as the development of advanced medical treatments and environmental monitoring helps secure a better quality of life for all
NPL develops and maintains the nation's primary measurement standards, supporting an infrastructure of traceable measurement throughout the UK and the world, to ensure accuracy and consistency.