Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1545206
30 SMT007 MAGAZINE I JUNE 2026 BY A DA M K L E T T, P H . D. , KYZ E N C O R P O R AT I O N F E AT U R E A RT I C L E Selecting the appropriate aqueous cleaning agent is one of the most consequential decisions in mitigating contamination risks in high-density designs. Highly dense electronic assemblies have introduced a new level of sensitivity to contamina- tion. Reduced conductor spacing, bottom-termi- nated components, and elevated power densities significantly increase the risk that even minimal flux residues will lead to electrochemical migration, leak- age currents, and long-term reliability failures. I'll examine the key considerations involved in choosing an aqueous cleaning agent for removing flux residues from highly dense assemblies, and ex- plore the interplay between flux chemistry, cleaning performance, material compatibility, environmental compliance, and process conditions, by providing a practical framework for ensuring both immediate cleanliness and long-term reliability. Key Considerations When Selecting an Aqueous Cleaning Agent