Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1379105
22 SMT007 MAGAZINE I JUNE 2021 and heavily restricted the use of solvents in general coatings applications. Whilst conformal coatings are currently exempt from this legislation, it is not hard to imagine that they will be targeted in further legislation or perhaps even the next revision. is has had a knock-on effect with the environmental aspect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) starting to become more apparent at the material specification level. For the first time in my 22 years in the conformal coating industry, I have seen several specifications that specifically preclude the use of solvent- containing or solvent-emitting conformal coating materials. is is not only a great step forward for the environment, but a great step forward for the material users as well. Solvent- free alternative materials are generally higher performing in condensing environments and can have the ability to meet the requirements of the increased maximum thermal operating temperatures. e IPC-CC-830 Conformal Coating Standard Committee is currently looking to introduce several new classes of coating materials. is reflects the newer types of products that have been introduced to help meet some of these new industry requirements. much more quickly if this is present. Liquid water can also change the electrical properties of many coatings, causing them to become less insulating than expected—leading to leakage currents and other unexpected electrical behaviours that result in faulty performance of the assembly. We have witnessed many cases of late whereupon companies are performing condensation testing of powered assemblies coated with historical materials and processes, which fail very rapidly, as predicted by the NPL's recent industry project. ankfully, there are materials and processes available that can maintain operation and prevent corrosion and failure events under condensing conditions. Environmental issues have really been in the spotlight over the past 12 months as pollution levels have dropped in many areas due to various lockdowns—despite huge ice sheet breakages and raging wildfires. roughout the world, governments have pledged commitments to a variety of agreements aiming to reduce greenhouse gases and minimize climate change. For example, this year China has effectively banned the use of certain solvents used in many legacy coating formulations, A programmable robotic spray nozzle applies the conformal coating to selective areas of the circuit board for an efficient, repeatable result. Electrolube AFA being applied under UV light.