Debbie -

You didn't say what testing you were doing,  but FTIR testing is often
used for detecting /  profiling silicon(& other) contamination.    As you
said it takes several days for the results.  Photometrics is in our area
(Anaheim) offers good service - I'm sure there are other acceptable labs
around also.

Clean-up is tough.  We have used IPA but that may not work depending
on what else the silicon may be bound with... For surface finish
compatibility,  you should check with your OSP supplier depending on
what solvent you use.

The key to resolving silicon contamination is to keep it out your facility.
Once you're confident that all processes &  support materials (including
press pads, slip sheets, maint oils,  etc.)  are silicon free -  don't forget
raw materials that may be shipped in through a distributor that may be
slitting other (silicon based) materials...

We perform receiving inspection testing (raw materials) based on
history.  From our experience it's much easier to keep it out the shop
rather than to fight trying to clean it up...  Hope  this helps.

Bob Sheldon
Packard-Hughes Interconnect

>>> Debbie Kenney <[log in to unmask]> 08/03/98 08:09am >>>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Debbie Kenney
> Posted At:    Monday, August 03, 1998 8:39 AM
> Posted To:    IPC FORUM
> Conversation: Silicon contamination
> Subject:      Silicon contamination
>
> We are a manufacturer of flex circuits supplying to a customer base
> that is extremely Silicon sensitive. Initial testing shows that we are
> picking up the silicon in our lamination cycle, DOE's are continuing.
> My questions to the industry are:
>
> 1. What chemicals are available that will remove silicon from finished
> product?
> 2. Will these chemicals also remove the Entek OSP coating?
> 3. Ideas on clean room modifications to eliminate silicon
> contamination ?
> 4. Does anyone have recommendations on a good procedure for in
house
> testing of the silicon levels? Currently we contract with a lab which
> takes 3-4 days.
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Debbie Kenney
> Multi-Fineline Electronix, Inc.
> Disk Drive Division
> (714) 996-1248 ex 215
> [log in to unmask]

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