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36 SMT007 MAGAZINE I JUNE 2026 Comprehensive compatibility testing should include both controlled laboratory exposure and dynamic testing under actual process conditions. Environmental and Safety Considerations The regulatory environment surrounding clean- ing chemistries is placing increased emphasis on environmental impact and worker safety. Key considerations include: • Restrictions on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) • Limitations on hazardous air pollutants and ozone-depleting substances • Ongoing regulation of substances such as PFAS and trichloroethylene (TCE) • Waste treatment and disposal requirements • Worker exposure limits and hazard communi- cation standards Selecting a cleaning agent with a favorable regu- latory profile not only ensures compliance but also reduces long-term operational risk and simplifies global implementation. Rinsing and Drying: Completing the Process Effective cleaning does not end with residue disso- lution. Rinsing and drying are both critical in ensur- ing that contaminants and the cleaning chemistry are fully removed from the assembly. Incomplete rinsing can leave behind cleaner residues that are just as detrimental as the original flux. This is especially problematic beneath low- standoff components, where trapped chemistry can lead to latent failures. High-performance aqueous cleaning agents are designed to rinse cleanly with deionized water, minimize residue carryover, and enable complete drying without streaking, spotting, or moisture entrapment. Process and Equipment Considerations Cleaning chemistry must be compatible with the capabilities and limitations of the cleaning equip- ment in use. Whether the process involves inline spray-in-air systems, batch immersion systems, or ultrasonic cleaning, the chemistry must perform effectively under those specific conditions. Critical factors include foam control in spray applications, stability and phase consistency at operating temperatures, compatibility with cycle times and throughput requirements, and ease of monitoring and maintaining bath concentration. A well-matched chemistry enhances both clean- ing performance and process efficiency. Measuring Effectiveness: Static vs. Dy- namic Testing Evaluating cleaning performance requires a combination of testing approaches. Static testing provides a controlled method for screening chem- Figure 2: Examples of material compatibility failures involving component markings and coatings.