How to improve the conductivity and corrosion resistance of PCB boards?

The conductivity and corrosion resistance of a circuit board are two key indicators to measure its performance. Conductivity determines the efficiency of the circuit and the quality of signal transmission, while corrosion resistance is related to the durability and reliability of the PCB in harsh environments. The following will discuss how to improve the conductivity and corrosion resistance of PCB boards through different technologies and methods.

Improvement of PCB conductivity

Conductivity refers to the ability of a material to allow current to pass through. For PCB, it mainly depends on the material and thickness of its conductive layer. Here are several ways to improve PCB conductivity:

1. Choose the right conductive material

Using high-purity copper foil as the conductive layer of the PCB is a basic way to improve conductivity. Copper is widely used because of its excellent conductive properties and cost-effectiveness. In addition, the use of precious metals such as silver or gold can also be explored. Although the cost is higher, their conductive properties are better.

2. Optimize the thickness of copper foil

The thickness of copper foil directly affects the conductive properties of the PCB. Increasing the thickness of copper foil can reduce resistance and improve conductivity, but it will also increase cost. When designing, it is necessary to select the appropriate copper foil thickness according to application requirements and cost budget.

3. Surface treatment technology

Surface treatment technologies such as electroless nickel gold plating (ENIG), electroless tin plating (Immersion Tin) or organic solderability protective film (OSP) can form a protective layer on the copper surface to improve conductivity and prevent oxidation.

4. Use advanced manufacturing processes

Using advanced manufacturing processes such as laser direct imaging (LDI) technology can improve the accuracy and resolution of conductive patterns, thereby improving conductive properties.

Improvement of PCB board corrosion resistance

Corrosion resistance refers to the ability of PCB to resist chemical or physical erosion under specific conditions. Here are a few ways to improve the corrosion resistance of PCB:

1. Use anti-corrosion materials

Choosing substrate materials with good chemical corrosion resistance, such as FR-4 epoxy resin glass fiber board, can improve the corrosion resistance of PCB.

2. Surface coating protection

Applying a protective layer on the surface of the PCB, such as conformal coating, can form a protective film to resist moisture, salt spray and other corrosive substances.

3. Optimize layout

Consider corrosion resistance when laying out the PCB and avoid areas on the PCB that are prone to water accumulation or corrosion. For example, avoid placing too many components on the edge of the PCB to reduce the accumulation of moisture and contaminants.

4. Strict quality control

Implement strict quality control during the PCB manufacturing process to ensure that all materials and processes meet the corrosion resistance requirements. This includes testing of substrate materials, conductive materials and surface treatment.

Improving the conductivity and corrosion resistance of PCB boards is key to ensuring the performance and reliability of electronic products. The performance of PCB can be significantly improved by selecting suitable materials, adopting advanced manufacturing processes, applying surface treatment technology and implementing strict quality control. As the electronics industry's demand for high-performance PCB continues to grow, continued research and development of new improvement methods will drive the industry's technological advancement.