Megatrends

Miniaturization: How Adhesives and Equipment Play a Role

It’s a classic indicator of technological advancement: the more innovative a product gets, the smaller it becomes. Such was the case with technologies we now use every day, from cell phones to headphones. Since the advent of Moore’s Law, miniaturization has been a huge topic in the semiconductor industry. DELO stands at the ready with the adhesive and equipment solutions to further this trend, as these three of many examples illustrate.

Microdispensing

Precision bonding for high-performance semiconductors

Bonding is integral in semiconductor assembly. As semiconductor chips continue to shrink whilst increasing their high-performance capabilities, there is a need for ultra-fine bonding applications. This is where DELO microdispensing equipment comes in. Devices such as the DELO-DOT PN5 and DELO-DOT PN5 LV provide thin bondlines applied with utmost precision, making them an ideal response to a perpetual trend.

While smaller quantities are relatively easy to achieve with low-viscosity products, jetting highly filled products, as is often necessary for more demanding applications, poses technical challenges.

This is because small quantities require small nozzles through which the adhesive is jetted, and a valve needs enough power for the filler particles to get through. Simultaneously, it is essential to prevent particle damage and nozzle clogging. Engineering tests with DELO-DOT PN5 have demonstrated that these criteria can be successfully met.

For example, droplet sizes with diameters of about 400 µm—comparable to a medium-sized grain of sand—can be achieved with silver-filled, isotropic-conductive DELO DUALBOND products.

Arrange a Consultation
 

RFID

Cutting-edge adhesives for miniaturized RFID technology

One of the best examples of chip miniaturization is in the field of RFID. Found in retail price tags, logistics and many other applications, these ultra-compact chips are paper-thin and can barely be felt—as they measure only 400 µm x 400 µm 100 µm, and these dimensions are further shrinking.

DELO has developed a broad portfolio of aluminum- and copper-friendly adhesives, engineered for optimal use in RFID applications.

These adhesives enable the quick assembly of RFID labels, reliably bonding and electrically contacting chips to antennas by way of jet dispensing and thermode curing.

Given the size of the chips, the adhesive must be precisely dispensed in minute quantities. Many of today’s labels require amounts as low as 0.02 mg of adhesive.

Click here to learn more about our RFID solutions.

Arrange a Consultation
 

Micro Dam

Advancing miniaturization with micro dam stacking

One process solution DELO has come up with and that further pushes the boundaries of miniaturization is micro dam stacking. Here, smallest amounts of finely dispensed adhesive layers are dispensing through needles with diameters of smaller than 100 µm, stacked consecutively and lining the perimeter of the chip.

This prevents, for example, capillary underfills from getting in contact with surrounding components, creating keep out zones that are small and clean.

Tiny barriers, measuring just 50 µm wide—comparable to a thin human hair— are feasible, with the adhesive layers to be stacked with a final aspect ratio of 5 or more. What is more, these layers can be applied within a very short time and without intermediate curing.

See the process in action here.

Here you can find more information on the topic of micro dam.

Arrange a Consultation

Interested in learning more?

These have been just a few examples of ways DELO can serve as a one-stop solution for your company as it contributes to the trend of semiconductor miniaturization. Curious to find out how we can help with your use case?

With our assistance, as your products become smaller, your possibilities may ever-expand.

Arrange a Consultation
 

Innovation

Maybe also interesting

DELO adhesives play a vital role in driving innovation across various megatrends, ensuring high performance and reliability in rapidly evolving technological landscapes. Discover how our solutions contribute to these exciting developments.

Back to Megatrends

Megatrends

AI and HPC

In the realm of Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Computing, DELO adhesives provide robust solutions for securing advanced semiconductor components essential for powerful data processing systems.

More details

Megatrends

Big Data

For Big Data applications, our adhesives ensure the reliable assembly of storage systems and connectivity modules, facilitating seamless data transmission and integrity.

More details

Consumer Electronics

AR/VR/MR

Enhance component performance and integration with thermal conductivity, optical clarity, and acoustic damping in AR/VR/MR manufacturing with DELO.

More details

Let our experts advice you

We are your touchpoint for high-tech bonding. Our specialists worldwide are keen to support you. Get in touch with us now!

By submitting your request, you give your consent to have the personal data you entered processed in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

* Mandatory field

Woman at desk with iPad in her hand - DELO website on screen

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter

Receive exciting updates, offers, and insights

Receive regular updates on new products, developments, white papers, academy offers and events.
 

Register Now