Electronics Packaging and Reliability of electronic hardware

Micro-manufacturing and microsystem packaging

Micro-manufacturing and microsystem packaging/electronics packaging include fundamental studies of production and design technology for microsystems. The group's research is interdisciplinary and applies theories from mechanical, physical, chemical, electronic and materials sciences. Research focus is directed towards fundamental analyses of the processes and methods needed for the manufacture and integration of electronic, optoelectronic and microsystem components. The aim is to increase knowledge regarding connection, nesting and packaging for microelectronics and microsystem components through theoretical simulation and modelling as well as through experimental research.

Nanocrystalline solar cells and displays

Since 1997, Swerea IVF has been working with the development of dye-sensitised nanocrystalline solar cells, known as Grätzel cells. In 2000, the activities were expanded to include nanocrystalline electrochromic displays. Despite both applications being very different, the techniques are largely based on the same materials and processing technologies. Swerea IVF has worked intensively with the development of materials, process methodologies and prototypes. The motivation for the development of these new techniques is primarily the simple processing techniques that can be applied and the low cost of materials when compared with conventional displays/photovoltaics. This permits low investment costs for initiating production, as well as low production costs.

Reliability of electronic hardware

Swerea IVF can assess the reliability of new packaging in research projects and for specific products at the request of individual companies. The reliability of electronic hardware is traditionally assured through the design and production being carried out according to experience based standards, in other words, experience gained from "yesterday's techniques". Swerea IVF is working with development of a new methodology and new processes to ensure reliability when using new techniques for electronics packaging. Early failure due to design weaknesses and material/process related defects can be analysed using HALT/HASS testing which stimulates defects to failure. Ageing and wear related failures require accelerated tests designed to simulate the failure mechanism in order to enable the expected lifetime to be estimated. Swerea IVF can carry out both types of testing.

EMC - Electromagnetic Compatibility

The EU’s EMC directive states that electronics and other equipment must not generate electromagnetic interference exceeding a certain level, to ensure that other devices can operate without disruption. In addition, the equipment must be sufficiently well protected against electromagnetic interference.

Swerea IVF has EMC (Electromagnetic compatibility) laboratories in Mölndal, Stockholm and Malmö. At these laboratories, companies can test products during development to ensure that the products satisfy the EMC directive.

Further information

• List of publications on Electronics